Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
Esophageal cancer is the eighth-most frequently-diagnosed cancer worldwide, [2] and because of its poor prognosis, it is the sixth most-common cause of cancer-related deaths. [55] It caused about 400,000 deaths in 2012, accounting for about 5% of all cancer deaths (about 456,000 new cases were diagnosed, representing about 3% of all cancers).
Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which there is an abnormal (metaplastic) change in the mucosal cells lining the lower portion of the esophagus, from stratified squamous epithelium to simple columnar epithelium with interspersed goblet cells that are normally present only in the small intestine and large intestine.
If the disease remains untreated, it can cause scarring and discomfort in the esophagus. If the irritation is not allowed to heal, esophagitis can result in esophageal ulcers. Esophagitis can develop into Barrett's esophagus and can increase the risk of esophageal cancer. [3]
Cancer of the esophagus is often detected late inasmuch as there are typically no early symptoms. Nevertheless, if the cancer is caught soon enough, patients can have a five-year survival rate of 90% or above. By the time esophageal cancer is usually detected, though, it might have spread beyond the esophageal wall, and the survival rate drops ...
Esophageal cancer also presents with progressive mechanical dysphagia. Patients usually come with rapidly progressive dysphagia first with solids then with liquids, weight loss (> 10 kg), and anorexia (loss of appetite). Esophageal cancer usually affects the elderly. Esophageal cancers can be either squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma.
Some people also experience a sensation known as globus esophagus, where it feels as if a ball is lodged in the lower part of the esophagus. The following are additional diseases and conditions that affect the esophagus: Achalasia [1] Acute esophageal necrosis; Barrett's esophagus; Boerhaave syndrome; Caustic injury to the esophagus; Chagas disease
For premium support please call: 800-290-4726 more ways to reach us
Even light and moderate alcohol consumption increases cancer risk in individuals, especially with respect to squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus, oropharyngeal cancer, and breast cancer. [6] [214] Acetaldehyde, a metabolic product of alcohol, is suspected to promote cancer. [215] Typically the liver eliminates 99% of acetaldehyde produced.