Oesophageal Cancer: Types, Symptoms, Causes & Diagnosis

Oesophagal cancer is a devastating disease. It can leave many feeling lost and unsure of where to turn. It's important to understand the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for this type of cancer to effectively combat it. From difficulty swallowing to weight loss and chest pain, oesophagal cancer can manifest itself in various ways. 

In this blog post, we'll explore everything you need to know about oesophagal cancer so you can be proactive in your health or support loved ones who may be affected by this disease.

What is Oesophagal Cancer?

Oesophagal cancer is a type of cancer. It affects the oesophagus, the long, hollow tube that runs from your throat to your stomach. Oesophageal cancer can occur anywhere along the length of the oesophagus. 

The most common type of oesophagal cancer is called adenocarcinoma. It begins in cells in the lining of the oesophagus. Other types of oesophagal cancer include squamous cell carcinoma and small cell carcinoma. 

Types of Oesophagal Cancer

There are four main types of oesophagal cancer: squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, small cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.

Squamous cell carcinoma makes up the majority of oesophagal cancers. It is most commonly found in the upper part of the oesophagus.

Adenocarcinomas are more common in the lower part of the oesophagus. They are often associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Small and large cell carcinomas are less common types of oesophagal cancer. 

In addition, some other rare forms of oesophagal cancer include adenosquamous carcinoma, sarcoma, and lymphoma.

Symptoms of Oesophagal Cancer

The most common symptom of oesophagal cancer is difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). 

Other concerning symptoms of oesophagal cancer may include:

• Weight loss
• Persistent cough or hoarseness
• Chest pain, pressure or burning
• Indigestion and heartburn that doesn't go away
• Vomiting blood or having blood in your stool

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your chances of successful treatment.

Causes of Oesophagal Cancer

The main cause of oesophagal cancer is long-term damage to the oesophagus. This can be caused by several things. These include:

• Acid Reflux: This occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the oesophagus. Over time, this can damage the oesophagal lining and increase the risk of cancer.
  
• Barrett's Oesophagus: This is a condition in which the tissue lining the oesophagus changes, becoming more like the tissue lining the intestine. The change is thought to have been caused by repeated exposure to stomach acid. People with Barrett's oesophagus have an increased risk of developing oesophagal cancer.
  
• Smoking: Tobacco use is a major risk factor for all types of cancer, including oesophagal cancer.
  
• Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Drinking large amounts of alcohol increases the risk of developing various types of cancer, including oesophagal cancer.

Diagnosis of Oesophagal Cancer

Several tests may be used to diagnose oesophagal cancer. The most common test is an upper endoscopy. It is a procedure where a small camera is inserted through the mouth and down the throat.

This allows the doctor to see any abnormal areas in the oesophagus. A biopsy can also be taken during this procedure to remove a small piece of tissue for further examination. 

Other diagnostic tests include:

• Barium Swallow: A barium swallow is an x-ray exam of the oesophagus. The patient drinks a liquid containing barium. It coats the inside of the oesophagus and makes it easier to see on an x-ray.

• CT Scan: A CT scan uses special X-ray equipment to get detailed cross-sectional images of your body. 

• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): An endoscopic ultrasound is similar to an upper endoscopy, but instead of just having a camera at the end of the scope, there is also an ultrasound probe. This allows doctors to see if there are any tumours in the layer of tissue just below the lining of the oesophagus. It can also help them determine how deep the tumour extends into the wall of the oesophagus. 

• PET Scan: A PET scan uses radioactive glucose (sugar) to show areas of high cell activity in your body. Cancer cells tend to have higher levels of cell activity than normal cells, so they appear brighter on the scan.

• Blood Test: Some people with oesophageal cancer have low red blood cell counts due to bleeding in the tumour. Your doctor might order a CBC Haemogram (complete blood count) to check for anaemia. You may also be required to take a Liver Function Test (LFT) as oesophageal cancer tends to spread to the liver. 

Treatment of Oesophagal Cancer

Treatment for oesophagal cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. Surgery is usually the first treatment for early-stage cancers.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells.

Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments. People with oesophagal cancer may want to talk with their doctor about clinical trials that are open to them.

Oesophageal Cancer Prognosis

The prognosis for oesophagal cancer is generally poor. The five-year survival rate for this disease is less than 20 per cent. However, the prognosis depends on several factors, such as the stage of cancer, the location of the tumour, and the patient's overall health.

Oesophagal cancer, which is caught early before it has spread to other parts of the body, has a better prognosis. Treatment for oesophagal cancer often includes surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Oesophagal cancer is a serious form of cancer that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. It is important to be aware of the symptoms and causes and to seek medical attention as soon as possible if needed. 

Treatment options vary depending on the severity and type of oesophagal cancer, but with early detection and proper medical care, patients have an improved chance at successful treatment outcomes. 

With this knowledge, you can take steps towards protecting your health by booking a home visit to collect blood samples at Metropolis Labs. Blood tests can help you spot the signs early on so that you can get help before it is too late.