Esophageal cancer is a disease in which malignant cells form in the tissues of the esophagus, the muscular tube that extends from the neck to the abdomen and allows food to reach the stomach. Most of the length of the esophagus is lined with squamous cells, the tissue most likely to be affected by uncontrolled tumor growth. The bottom of the esophagus is lined with columnar cells that can give rise to malignant tumors called adenocarcinomas.  Additional, but less-seldom seen tumors of the esophagus are sarcoma and small cell cancer. Although the American Cancer Society says esophageal cancers account for about 1% of total cancers, the incidence appears to be increasing, with about 15,000 new cases each year.

Fortunately for San Diegans, the Moores UCSD Cancer Center has internationally acclaimed experts in the diagnosis and treatment of esophageal cancer. 

• Dr. Thomas Savides, Director of the UCSD Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) Program, is able to determine the exact stage of cancer.  And, in some cases, he can perform an endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) that avoids major surgery, or thermal coagulation of the esophagus surface.
• Use of the minimally invasive da Vinci robot by esophageal surgeons Dr. Santiago Horgan, Director UCSD’s section of Minimally Invasive Surgery, and Dr. Michael Bouvet is available only at UCSD. 
• Dr. Tony Reid directs our clinical research program with a focus on gastrointestinal malignancies. 

Causes & Prevention

Although the exact cause of esophageal cancer is not known, physicians have been able to identify several risk factors:

• Heavy alcohol use
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Esophageal conditions, such as Barrett esophagus (associated with long term acid reflux from the stomach) and achalasia (a benign esophageal disease)
• Exposure to silica dust

The most common symptoms of esophageal cancer are difficulty in swallowing or the sticking of food before it gets into the stomach.  Individuals may also notice weight loss, pain with swallowing, regurgitation of food, coughing with blood or hoarseness.

The American Cancer Society suggests avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use to substantially reduce the risk of developing esophageal cancer.  Also exercise and a healthy, high-fiber diet.