Esophageal Cancer

Signs & Symptoms

Signs and symptoms are different for each patient. It’s important to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your physician. They may include:

• Difficulty swallowing or the sensation of food getting stuck
• Unexplained weight loss
• Hoarseness and/or persistent cough
• Indigestion and/or sour acid taste in the back of the throat
• Blood in sputum
• Pain or tenderness behind the breastbone or chest

Screening & Diagnostic Testing

Screening and diagnostic testing will include a physical exam and various tests such as endoscopy, bronchoscopy, or flexible laryngoscopy to examine the anatomy of the esophagus and nearby structures. If tissue appears suspicious, a biopsy may be taken to be further examined under a microscope. To help facilitate diagnosis, radiological exams such as chest X-ray, a CT scan, or a PET scan may be ordered.

Helpful Patient Resources:

We understand that receiving a cancer diagnosis can be a very scary and an emotional time for patients and their families. It is very important to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your oncologist. We highly recommend that if you do any research about your disease, you do so only with reputable sources. For your convenience, we’ve listed some below.

National Cancer Institute

Esophageal Cancer - Patient Version

American Cancer Society

Esophagus Cancer

National Comprehensive Cancer Network

Guidelines for Patients