Esophageal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the esophagus. Esophageal cancer starts at the inside lining of the esophagus and spreads outward through the other layers as it grows. Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and Barrett’s esophagus can affect the risk of developing esophageal cancer.
The prognosis and treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer (whether it affects part of the esophagus, involves the whole esophagus, or has spread to other places in the body); the size of the tumor and the patient’s general health.
Esophageal Cancer Treatment at Moores UCSD Cancer Center
Esophageal cancer patients are treated in our Gastrointestinal Cancer Unit and the section of Minimally Invasive Surgery. Follow the links to learn more about our unique approach to care.