Will chemotherapy for esophageal cancer worsen the condition?
May 15, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Qifeng
Introduction
If the condition is under control, esophageal cancer chemotherapy generally does not worsen; otherwise, it may deteriorate. The specific analysis is as follows: Esophageal cancer is a type of malignant tumor. If patients smoke or drink alcohol for prolonged periods, causing chronic irritation to the esophagus, it may lead to malignant transformation of mucosal cells and subsequently trigger esophageal cancer. Common symptoms include difficulty swallowing and sternum pain.
Generally, esophageal cancer chemotherapy does not worsen if the condition is under control; otherwise, it may deteriorate. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Will not worsen
Esophageal cancer is a type of malignant tumor. Chronic irritation to the esophagus caused by long-term smoking and alcohol consumption in patients may lead to malignant transformation of mucosal cells, thereby triggering esophageal cancer. Common symptoms include difficulty swallowing and sternum pain. Chemotherapy for esophageal cancer is one of the common treatment methods, primarily using chemotherapeutic agents such as cisplatin for injection and irinotecan hydrochloride to kill cancer cells in the body. If the patient is in the early stage and the disease is effectively controlled, the condition generally will not worsen.
2. May worsen
If the patient is already in the advanced stage, with cancer cells having spread to other areas, the cure rate through chemotherapy is relatively low, and the condition may further deteriorate.
Patients are advised to actively cooperate with their doctors during treatment, ensure adequate rest, consume easily digestible and soft foods, and minimize irritation to the esophagus.
