Oesophageal Cancer Flashcards
1
Q
Define Oesophageal Cancer?
A
Malignant tumour arising in the oesophagus
2
Q
What are two main histological types of Oesophageal Cancer?
A
Squamous cell carcinoma
Adenocarcinoma
3
Q
What are causes for Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
A
Alcohol Tumour Plummer-Vinson Syndrome Achalasia Scleroderma Coeliac Disease Nutritional Deficiencies Dietary Toxins (e.g. nitrosamines)
4
Q
What are the causes for Adenocarcinoma?
A
GORD
Barrett’s Oesophagus
5
Q
What is the epidemiology of oesophageal cancer?
A
8th most common cancer
3x more common in males
Squamous cell carcinoma is more common in DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Adenocarcinoma is more prevalent in the WESTERN WORLD
6
Q
What are the presenting symptoms of oesophageal cancer?
A
Often asymptomatic Progressive dysphagia (initially worse for solids) Regurgitation Cough Choking after food Voice Hoarseness Odynophagia (painful swallowing) Weight Loss Fatigue (due to iron deficiency anaemia)
7
Q
What are the signs of Oesophageal Cancer on physical examination?
A
There may be no signs Metastatic disease may cause: - Supraclavicular lymphadenopathy - Hepatomegaly - Hoarseness - Signs of bronchopulmonary involvement
8
Q
What investigations would you do and what specifically?
A
Endoscopy - Brushings and Biopsy Imaging - Barium Swallow and CXR Staging - CT chest and abdomen Bronchoscopy LFTs ABGs
