Esophageal cancer affects your esophagus, the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach. It takes the following two forms.
Adenocarcinoma develops in the mucus-secreting cells lining your esophagus. It’s the most common type of esophageal cancer, usually affecting the lower part of your esophagus. Your risk of adenocarcinoma is higher if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can develop into Barrett’s esophagus.
Squamous cells are the flat, thin cells lining your esophagus. Squamous cell carcinoma develops in the top or middle part of your esophagus. Smoking and drinking alcohol excessively can increase your risk of squamous cell carcinoma.
You likely won’t experience any symptoms in esophageal cancer’s early stages. When symptoms do develop, they can vary but may include:
Contact Dr. Padda if you have these symptoms. You should also have regular esophageal cancer screenings if you suffer from Barrett’s esophagus or GERD.
Dr. Padda begins your diagnosis by reviewing your symptoms, checking your medical history, and completing a physical exam.
Depending on what he finds, Dr. Padda might recommend one or more procedures to confirm or exclude an esophageal cancer diagnosis.
An upper endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is a minimally invasive procedure where Dr. Padda inserts an endoscope (slim, flexible tube) down your esophagus. The endoscope has a camera that sends video of your esophagus to a screen for Dr. Padda to view in detail.
He can do a biopsy during your endoscopy to harvest abnormal tissue samples for lab analysis. You might also need an endoscopic ultrasound, CT, or PET scan to determine if esophageal cancer has metastasized (spread to other areas of your body).
Esophageal cancer treatment varies depending on the type of cancer, how advanced it is, your age and other health concerns, and your personal preferences.
Dr. Padda can treat and eradicate Barrett’s esophagus (a major esophageal cancer risk factor) if he detects it early on, using endoscopic techniques. Other treatments include:
Dr. Padda works closely with your oncologist to ensure you receive the best possible care.
Call the office today for timely esophageal cancer and Barrett’s esophagus diagnosis and treatment. You can also request an appointment online.