Date updated: June 01, 2009
Content provided by National Institute of Health

Also called: Esophagus cancer, Esophageal Carcinoma, Esophageal Adenocarcinoma

Esophageal Cancer is a serious form of cancer that starts in the inner layer of your esophagus, a 10-inch long tube that connects your throat and stomach. The most common symptom of Esophageal Cancer, usually occurring late in the disease, is difficulty swallowing and a sensation of food getting stuck in your throat or chest.

Other names for Esophageal Cancer include Esophagus Cancer, Esophageal Carcinoma and Esophageal Adenocarcinoma.

The causes for Esophageal Cancer in the U.S. differ depending in what type of cancer is being considered. The risk factors for squamous cell cancer include smoking tobacco and heavy use of alcohol. People who are infected with human papilloma virus are also at increased risk. Those who suffer from achalasia (a benign esophageal disease), chronic scarring of the esophagus due to prior injury, or tylosis (a rare genetic disorder) are also at increased risk.

Often, early stages of Esophageal Cancer has no symptoms. Symptoms do not appear until the disease is more advanced. The following are the most common symptoms of Esophageal Cancer. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

* difficult or painful swallowing

* A condition known as dysphagia, this is the most common symptom of esophageal cancer. This gives a sensation of having food lodged in the chest, and persons with dysphagia often switch to softer foods to help with swallowing.

* pain in the throat or back, behind the breastbone or between the shoulder blades

* severe weight loss

Many persons with esophageal cancer lose weight intentionally because they are not getting enough food.

* hoarseness or chronic cough

* vomiting

* coughing up blood.