Esophageal Cancer Treatment in Gurgaon
Esophageal cancer is a condition in which malignant cells develop in the esophagus (the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach). The condition starts in the inner lining and starts spreading outwards if not treated.
At Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon, we offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options for esophageal cancer, backed by a team of highly experienced specialists and cutting-edge technology.
What is Esophageal Cancer?
Esophageal cancer occurs when malignant cells form in the tissues of the esophagus. The esophagus function in the human body is to carry food and liquid from the throat to stomach. The wall of the esophagus tube is made of several layers of tissues. And if you’re diagnosed with Esophageal Cancer, it begins on the inside lining of the esophagus tube. As the condition progresses further, it spreads outside the layers of the tissue wall.
What are the Types of Esophageal Cancer?
The cancerous condition is of two types, and spreads differently depending on their location in your body. Let’s know further about types of esophageal cancer.
- Adenocarcinoma – Begins in mucus-secreting glands, typically in the lower esophagus. In this type, the cancerous cells begin releasing fluids, such as mucus that infect your body and spread cancer through other parts.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma – Originates in the flat cells lining of the esophagus, more common in the upper and middle sections. But, it can be found anywhere along the esophagus. Its other name is epidermoid carcinoma.
What are the Causes and Risk Factors for Esophageal Cancer?
While the real cause of Esophageal Cancer is unidentified, as the cancerous cell develops from DNA change in the cells. Below we have a list of risk factors that may lead to Esophageal Cancer.
Risk factors for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
SCC arises from the flat squamous cells that line most of the esophagus and is the most common type worldwide. Here are some reasons that may increase the risk of SCC.
- Tobacco and alcohol use: A history of smoking and heavy drinking significantly increases risk, and these two factors act synergistically.
- Very hot beverages: Regularly drinking or gulping hot liquids can cause long-term thermal injury to the esophagus.
- Poor diet: Low intake of fruits and vegetables, and a diet high in processed meat, may increase the risk.
- Achalasia: This disorder prevents the esophageal sphincter from relaxing, causing food to build up and irritate the esophagus.
- Tylosis: A rare, inherited skin condition that greatly increases the risk of SCC.
Risk factors for adenocarcinoma (EAC)
EAC develops from glandular cells in the lower esophagus and is the most common type in Western countries. Let’s see what factors might lead to the EAC condition.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Long-term, chronic acid reflux is a primary risk factor. The constant backwash of stomach acid damages the lower esophagus.
- Barrett's esophagus: In some cases of long-standing GERD, the cells lining (lower esophagus) change to become more like intestinal cells. This is a precancerous condition and a major risk factor for adenocarcinoma.
- Obesity: Excess body weight, particularly abdominal obesity, is strongly associated with an increased risk of EAC. This may be partly due to the increased risk of GERD associated with obesity.
- Tobacco use: While the link is weaker than for SCC, smoking also increases the risk of adenocarcinoma.
Are There Any Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer?
Yes, you might see a few symptoms when suffering from this cancerous condition. So, lookout for these signs if you are worried about your esophagus health:
- Difficulty swallowing: Facing difficulty swallowing water or food is a common sign of irritation or problem around the esophagus area.
- Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight abruptly shows how the cancer cells are affecting your overall health and result in types of deficiency.
- Chest pain or pressure: Pain in chest or feeling a sudden pressure is a sign of many different conditions, and it could be for this one as well.
- Persistent cough or hoarseness: The growth of cancer cells in the esophagus area might conflict with your laryngeal nerve, and it affects your voice box, leading to persistent cough or hoarseness.
Which Diagnosis Tests are Suggested to Detect Esophageal Cancer?
Gastroenterologist will suggest the following diagnostic test in case of Esophageal Cancer risk. Do learn about these diagnostic tests and see how it will detect cancer cells in your body.
Endoscopy
In this procedure, a thin tube with a camera (endoscope) is used to visually detect any abnormalities of the esophagus. The specialist also uses Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for clear images of the esophagus lining.
Biopsy
Next, step after endoscopy is biopsy, in which tissue samples taken during endoscopy are sent to the lab to analyze if any cancerous cells are present or not. In this step, the severity of your condition and grade of the cancer is determined.
Beside the above tests, the specialist may suggest the following imaging tests for a detailed analysis of the cancer growth.
- CT Scan – Detects tumor spread.
- MRI – Offers detailed soft tissue imaging .
- PET Scan – Highlights active cancer cells.
What is Esophageal Cancer Staging?
Cancer staging helps determine the extent of cancer spread. With the help of your cancer stage your treatments are decided by the attending doctors. Here is a brief view of Esophageal Cancer stages.
- Stage 0-I: The cancer cells are found in the inner lining but haven't spread or grown yet.
- Stage II–III: Regional lymph nodes have been affected by the cancer cells, but don't affect the nearby organs.
- Stage IV: More than 7 lymph nodes are affected and now the cancer is affecting nearby organs.
What are the types of Esophageal Cancer Treatment?
Our cancer specialists at Artemis Hospitals create a planned treatment for Esophageal Cancer by considering your health, stage of cancer, pre-existing condition, etc. Let’s see the types of treatment suggested for this cancer.
- Surgery (Esophagectomy): Removal of part or all of the esophagus. The surgeon will remove the affected area wherein cancer cells growth is seen. After which, the growth of cancer cells is stopped and there is less to no risk of cancerous growth in the esophagus.
- Chemotherapy & Radiation Therapy: Used before or after surgery, or for advanced cases. Typically involves 3–6 months of treatment. Radiation therapy is often combined with chemotherapy (chemoradiation).
- Targeted Therapy: In this method, the treatment involves, dose of different medication to target cancer cells. This aim is to reduce the growth of cells and kill them without any surgical procedure. In some cases, targeted therapy is combined with chemotherapy.
- Immunotherapy: Used in advanced or recurrent cases or if surgery isn’t an option. In this treatment, the aim is to boost the human body immunity, so it kills the bacteria supporting the cancer cell growth and ultimately leads to the end of cancer cells.
Palliative care is provided to patients and their family. This is done to provide relief from pain and improve the quality of life in late-stage cancer.
What is the Estimated Recovery Time for Esophageal Cancer Treatment Care?
Recovery after esophagectomy may take a few weeks to months depending on the individual progress post-treatment. The actual timeline for your recovery may vary based on individual cases. And for post-treatment, you should include the following steps:
- Regular follow-ups: Do complete your regular appointments with our cancer specialist to measure the progress. The follow-ups are also important, so in case you feel any complications post-treatment it can be taken care of by the specialist.
- Physical rehabilitation: Surgery on the esophagus often affects the lungs because of the chest incision. This component of rehab includes: deep breathing exercises to help expand lung capacity and prevent respiratory complications like pneumonia. This post-treatment care is to improve overall physical fitness and endurance.
What are the Side Effects and Complications of Esophageal Cancer Treatment?
Some complications or side effects might arise post-treatment. In such cases, do consult with our specialists. Below we’ve listed some common effects and complications.
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Difficulty swallowing
- Risk of infection
- Changes in taste and appetite
Why Choose Artemis Hospital for Esophageal Cancer Treatment?
Artemis Hospitals, in Gurgaon is the best Oncology (Cancer Care) hospital. With advanced technology and experienced specialists, we aim to provide the best Oncologists in Gurgaon for your cancer treatment.
For expert diagnosis, treatment, and personalized care, visit Artemis Hospitals. We offer the best services with a multidisciplinary approach. Whether it’s an early-stage Esophageal Cancer, advanced cancer treatment, or just supportive care after treatment, we, at Artemis Hospitals ensure patients receive the best possible medical attention.
To book an appointment with the top cancer doctors in Gurgaon, contact Artemis Hospitals at +91 9800400498. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile (PHR) app, available on both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Mukesh Patekar
Unit Head - Medical Oncology
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
Is esophageal cancer curable?
Yes, especially if detected early. Surgery and combined therapies offer the best chance. However, do consult with our cancer specialist to get the right advice on your treatment.
What is the first sign of esophageal cancer?
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), this is a common sign of esophageal cancer, but it could be a sign of some other condition. So, don’t seek any treatment without right medical advice.
What is life expectancy after esophageal cancer surgery?
Stage I patients may live 5+ years; advanced stages have lower survival. However, the life expectancy varies based on individual cases, this is just a tentative timeline.
What is the last stage of esophageal cancer?
Stage IV involves metastasis to organs like liver, lungs, or bones. In this, the cancer cells have affected the other organs and affect life expectancy.
Does esophageal cancer spread fast?
Yes, it often progresses rapidly after symptoms appear. But it is advised you consult with a specialist before waiting for the symptoms to get worse.
How many rounds of chemo are needed for esophageal cancer?
Typically, 3–6 months, depending on the stage and response. This varies upon case to case, so seek consultation from our cancer specialists for more information.
What kind of surgery is done for esophagus cancer?
Esophagectomy, removal of part or all of the esophagus. And if the growth of cancer is minimal, the same can be treated via chemo and other treatments.
Can MRI detect esophageal cancer?
Yes, especially useful for soft tissue and metastasis detection. This shows clear imaging of your cancer growth and whether they’re spread among other organs or not.
Are esophageal cancer and throat cancer the same?
No. They affect different anatomical regions and have distinct causes. Esophageal Cancer is specifically related to the food pipe and spreads across other organs. Whereas, in throat cancer, tonsils, larynx, or pharynx, gets affected among other areas of the throat.
What is the success rate for esophageal cancer treatment?
The success rate of cancer treatment varies based on individual cases. Do consult with our specialist for more information on your treatment plan and success rate.
Does esophageal cancer spread to the brain?
Rare, but possible in advanced stages. You can consult with the specialist and consult if this is the case with you. And what will be the possible treatments related to it.
Where can I get the best esophageal cancer treatment near me?
Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon offers world-class care and expert oncologists. We will help you in early detection of cancer, treatment and post-treatment care.
Who are the best esophageal cancer doctors near me?
We at Artemis Hospitals have a team of best esophageal cancer doctors. You can consult with them and get your cancer diagnosis and treatment plan.
Which is the best hospital for esophageal cancer treatment near me?
Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon is among India’s top cancer care centers. We have the best oncologists and advanced technology and treatments available.
