Synonyms
esophageal carcinoma, esophageal tumor, esophageal tumor, esophageal – Ca, beret carcinoma
Definition
Esophageal cancer (esophagus) is a malignant, uncontrollably fast-growing tumor that originates from the cells of the esophageal mucosa. In 80-90% of cases, there is a connection between years of consumption of high-proof alcohol (alcohol abuse) and the consumption of cigarettes. Esophageal cancer can also develop from a beret esophagus, which is a consequence of reflux disease (chronic heartburn).
The tumor causes symptoms only late, when it is already well advanced. Due to the late diagnosis, this type of cancer has a very poor prognosis for patients. The tumor has already closed a large part of the esophagus diameter. This results in difficulty swallowing. In some cases, food components can no longer pass through the narrowing (stenosis).
Epidemiology
The peak frequency of esophageal tumors is between the ages of 50 and 60, with men being affected 2-3 times more frequently than women. Overall, esophageal cancer is a comparatively rare cancer with a total frequency of 10 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. In Europe, esophageal cancer is represented among the total cancer deaths with 3.3% in men and 1.4% in women.
However, women are more frequently affected by esophageal cancer that is located further up (close to the mouth), which in turn has an even worse prognosis than cancer that is located closer to the stomach. Frequency distribution within the esophagus:
- Tumors located in the neck (cervical) part of the esophagus 5-10
- Tumors located above the trachea bifurcation (suprabifurcated) 45-55%
- Tumors located below the fork in the trachea (infrabifurcally)
- 40-50%
Illustration of the esophagus from the larynx to the diaphragm
- Cricoid cartilage quantity
- Aortic stenosis (end of the abdominal artery)
- Diaphragm tightness
- Thyroid gland
- A. carotis (carotid artery)
- Trachea (windpipe)
- Right main brochius (bronchi)
- Oesophagus
- Diaphragm (diaphragm)
