Cancer of the esophagus is a rare, but very serious form of cancer. Approximately 15,500 people are diagnosed with the disease each year in the United States, according to Merck Manuals Medical Library. Symptoms usually develop late in the course of the disease, often resulting in poor treatment outcomes. The type of treatment used for esophageal cancer depends on the stage, size, and precise location of the cancerous growth.
Surgery
The most commonly used treatment for esophageal cancer is surgery. One technique is called esophagectomy, in which the cancerous part of the esophagus is removed, along with nearby lymph nodes. Another technique, called radical esophagectomy involves the removal of the entire esophagus, and the upper part of the stomach, according to the MD Anderson Cancer Center. People with very early stage disease may receive surgery alone, but chemotherapy and radiation are often added.
Chemotherapy
A combination of several chemotherapeutic drugs is used for esophageal cancer, all with similar effectiveness. Cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil are two of the most commonly combined medications. Chemotherapy used by itself is not very effective, and is generally combined with radiation therapy.
Radiation Therapy
In many cases, surgery alone is not adequate treatment. Radiation combined with chemotherapy is used in those who are not candidates for surgery due to other illness, or because of their advanced stage of cancer. Radiation treatment may cause swelling of the esophagus, resulting in difficulty swallowing.
Photodynamic Therapy
With photodynamic therapy, a chemical substance is injected into the tumor. A laser beam is then directed at the tumor site. When the beam hits the chemical substance, toxins are created that destroy the cancer cells. This is a palliative treatment used to reduce the pain and distress caused by the tumor obstructing the esophagus.
Laser Therapy
Targeting a laser beam at the tumor is another palliative treatment used to increase quality of life and reduce suffering. Burning a hole in the tumor with a laser can help ease swallowing difficulties. This is a treatment that is sometimes repeated if necessary.
