The tube that runs from the throat to the stomach is called the esophagus, states the Mayo Clinic, and cancer that originates in this tube is called esophageal cancer. The cancer can develop anywhere but usually starts in the lower part of the esophagus. Treatment depends on the stage and extent of disease, but surgery is often used to remove tumors or part or all of the esophagus.
Significance
According to the American Cancer Society, in 2010, more than 16,000 individuals will be diagnosed with esophageal cancer and approximately 14,500 people will die from the disease. Men are three to four times more likely to be diagnosed with esophageal cancer than women, and it is found equally in Caucasians and African-Americans, says the American Cancer Society.
Features
Surgery is the most common form of treatment for esophageal cancer, says the National Cancer Institute. An esophagectomy may be performed, involving removal of part of the esophagus and pulling the stomach up to the remaining section. Many times, lymph nodes in the surrounding area are also removed for microscopic examination for cancer cells.
Side Effects
After an esophagectomy, side effects related to the surgery may occur, including slowing of gastric emptying due to impairment of the stomach muscles from surgery; this can lead to nausea and vomiting. Heartburn may also occur as bile and stomach contents enter the esophagus because the esophageal sphincter is damaged or missing, says the American Cancer Society. Antacids and motility drugs can help minimize these side effects, according to the American Cancer Society. Some people experience dumping syndrome, which includes diarrhea, sweating and flushing after meals. Changes in diet and eating smaller meals can help minimize these effects.
Additional Treatment
Depending on the stage of esophageal cancer, surgery may not be fully effective in treating the cancer, and other treatments are added. Chemotherapy may be used before surgery to help shrink the tumor to make it more operable, but if cancer is found in the lymph nodes during surgery, chemotherapy is typically given post-surgery, says the American Cancer Society. Radiation may also be administered. For advanced esophageal cancer, chemotherapy and radiation may be given after surgery to help ease pain or other symptoms the cancer may be causing. This type of treatment is not curative, but palliative.
Survivorship
According to the American Cancer Society, full removal of the esophagus may necessitate eating small meals more often, as well as remaining upright after meals. Eliminating alcohol or minimizing drinking alcoholic drinks can aid in esophageal or stomach pain that continues after surgery. Following esophageal cancer treatment, an individual may experience fatigue; rest, along with a reasonable exercise program can help increase energy.
References
- American Cancer Society: What are the key statistics about cancer of the esophagus?
- National Cancer Institute: Esophageal Cancer Treatment
- American Cancer Society: Esophgeal Cancer: Surgery
- American Cancer Society: Treating esophageal cancer by stage
- American Cancer Society: Lifestyle changes to consider during and after treatment
