Why is chemotherapy not recommended for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma?
Oct 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Qi Zhirong
Introduction
In general, chemotherapy may not be recommended for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma due to factors such as absence of initial metastasis, drug resistance, neurotoxicity, liver and kidney dysfunction, and cancer cell dissemination. Chemotherapy is typically suitable for patients in the early stages of cancer who do not exhibit drug resistance or adverse side effects. Conversely, it is not advised for others, to avoid compromising treatment efficacy and negatively impacting the patient's quality of life.
In general, chemotherapy may not be recommended for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma due to factors such as early-stage disease, drug resistance, neurotoxicity, kidney function impairment, and cancer cell metastasis. If any abnormalities occur, timely medical consultation is advised. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Early-stage esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Chemotherapy is a treatment option for patients with intermediate or advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. However, if the disease is currently in the early stage and there is no evidence of cancer cell spread after surgery, chemotherapy is usually unnecessary. Regular follow-up observation is typically sufficient.
2. Drug resistance
Some patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma may develop drug resistance after prolonged chemotherapy. When the body becomes resistant to chemotherapeutic agents, treatment efficacy decreases; therefore, continued chemotherapy is not recommended. In such cases, improvement may be achieved through immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or other approaches under medical guidance.
3. Neurotoxicity
Neurotoxicity is commonly associated with poisoning from organophosphorus pesticides or certain medications. While chemotherapy drugs destroy tumor cells, they can also cause adverse effects on the body, including neurotoxicity, which may manifest as abnormal sensations, muscle weakness, and other symptoms. Treatment may include vitamin B6 tablets, vitamin E soft capsules, methylcobalamin tablets, or other medications as directed by a physician.
4. Liver and kidney function damage
Liver and kidney dysfunction are often related to drug side effects, hepatitis, nephritis, and other factors. Continued use of chemotherapy drugs can significantly affect liver and kidney function. When excretory functions of these organs are impaired, it may lead to hepatic or renal insufficiency, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as oliguria (reduced urine output) and abdominal distension. Medications such as hepatoprotective tablets, compound cyclophosphamide tablets, and azathioprine tablets may be used under physician supervision.
5. Cancer cell metastasis
Cancer metastasis is usually associated with suboptimal disease control. When cancer progresses to intermediate or advanced stages and distant metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma occurs, the effectiveness of chemotherapy is limited. Patients may experience symptoms such as weight loss and anemia. Radiation therapy, which uses targeted radiation to suppress cancer cells, may be performed under medical guidance.
Patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma should choose appropriate treatment strategies based on their individual conditions to minimize adverse effects associated with chemotherapy. Additionally, maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding excessive fear or anxiety about the disease is important.
