[37] Oesophageal Cancer Flashcards
What is the incidence of oesophageal cancer?
12/100,000
Why is the incidence of oesophageal cancer increasing?
Due to increase in Barrett’s oesophagus
What age does oesophageal cnacer occur?
50-70
What is the male to female ratio of oesophageal cancer?
M:F = 5:1
What countries have a higher incidence of oesophageal cancer?
Iran
Transkei
China
What are the risk factors for oesophageal cancer?
Alcohol Smoking Achalasia GORD leading to Barrett's oesophagus Plummer-Vinson synrome Fatty diet Reduced vitamin A and C Nitrosamine exposure
What are the types of oesophageal cancer?
Adenocarcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma
What % of oesophageal cancers are adenocarcinomas?
65%
What % of oesophageal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas?
35%
Where do adenocarcinomas of the oesophagus occur?
Lower 1/3
What causes adenocarcinoma of the oesophagus?
GORD → Barrett’s → dysplasia → cancer
Where do oesophageal SCC occur?
Upper and middle 3rd
What are oesophageal SCC associated with?
Alcohol
Smoking
What is the most common type of oesophageal cancer worldwide?
SCC
How does oesophageal cancer present?
Progressive dysphagia
Weight loss
Retrosternal chest pain
Lymphadenopathy
What happens in progressive dysphagia?
Progresses from solids to liquids, often causing an alteration in dietary habits to soft food
What is the result of the change in diet as a result of the dysphagia in oesophageal cancer?
Exacerbation of weight loss
What symptoms of oesophageal cancer might occur if its in the upper 1/3?
Hoarseness
Cough, with or without aspiration pneumonia