Clinical trials play an important role in improving cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. For some patients, taking part may offer access to new therapies that are not yet widely available. Your care team can help determine whether a clinical trial may be an option and explain what participation involves.
What is Esophageal Cancer?
Esophageal cancer affects the esophagus, the muscular tube that carries food and liquids from the throat to the stomach. It develops when cells lining the esophagus begin to grow and divide abnormally, sometimes forming a tumor.
Some people notice early changes like trouble swallowing or discomfort when eating. Others learn something may be wrong only after evaluation for another reason. If you or someone you care about has concerns, LifeBridge Health’s cancer specialists can answer questions, coordinate testing and guide treatment with care.
Esophageal Cancer Symptoms
Symptoms of esophageal cancer often develop slowly. When they do appear, they may feel like common digestive problems.
Common signs include:
- Trouble swallowing
- Pain or discomfort when swallowing
- Chest pain or pressure
- Hoarseness or a chronic cough
- Frequent heartburn
- Unintended weight loss
How Esophageal Cancer is Diagnosed
Evaluation usually begins when swallowing problems or other symptoms raise concern. Several tests may then be used to confirm an esophageal cancer diagnosis and determine how advanced the cancer may be.
Endoscopy
A thin, flexible tube with a camera is gently passed down the throat so your provider can look closely at the esophagus and note any areas of concern.
Biopsy
During endoscopy, your provider may take a small tissue sample. A specialist examines this sample under a microscope to confirm whether cancer is present.
Imaging Tests
CT scans, PET scans, MRI or endoscopic ultrasound can all help show the size and spread of a tumor.
Barium Swallow
In some cases, you may be asked to drink a liquid that coats the esophagus. This makes it easier to see narrowing or changes on an X-ray.
Esophageal Cancer Treatment Options
Our cancer experts work together across specialties to create a care plan that fits your diagnosis, overall health and goals. This plan may include one or more of the following options:
Surgery
Surgery aims to remove all of the cancer and a healthy margin of tissue. In cases where the cancer has spread, part or all of the esophagus may be removed as well as nearby lymph nodes.
Endoscopic Treatments
Some early-stage cancers can be treated with procedures that remove or destroy abnormal tissue without major surgery.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medication to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It may be used on its own or combined with other treatments to shrink a tumor, lower the risk of recurrence or ease symptoms.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It is often combined with chemotherapy for certain stages of esophageal cancer.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy uses medication to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy focuses on specific parts of cancer cells that help them grow. This approach helps limit damage to healthy tissue.
Clinical Trials
Supportive Services
When you receive cancer care at LifeBridge Health, you have access to supportive services like counseling, integrative therapies and support groups. These resources are designed to help patients care for their physical and emotional well‑being throughout treatment and beyond.