RECENT ADVANCES IN MANAGMENT OF CANCER ESOPHAGUS

Abstract

Esophageal cancer is a malignancy with a poor prognosis. It is the sixth cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The incidence of esophageal cancer has increased dramatically during the past 3 decades. The exact cause of esophageal cancer is unknown. Both smoking and alcohol abuse are known to be associated with an increased risk of squamous cell esophageal cancer. Chronic gastro-esophageal reflux, eventually leading to Barrett’s esophagus, is an important risk factor in the development of adenocarcinoma of the esophagus. However, the wide variance in the distribution of esophageal cancer among different demographic groups raises the possibility that genetic factors also play a role. The vast majority of patients are going to present with a complaint of dysphagia and weight loss but may be present with epigastric pain, regurgitation and vomiting. A barium swallow is usually the first test performed on a patient whose symptoms suggest esophageal cancer. Other investigations are esophagogram, esophagoscope, endoscopic ultrasound, CTchest & abdomen and other less significant measures. Endoscopic