What Are the Early Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer?
Jul 23, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Xiaojun
Introduction
Esophageal tumors are classified as either benign or malignant. Examples of benign esophageal lesions include polyps, leiomyomas, and adenomas—none of which typically produce distinctive clinical symptoms. Malignant esophageal lesions, such as esophageal carcinoma, may present in the early stage with mild dysphagia, a sensation of food retention, or chest pain. As the disease progresses, patients ultimately develop severe dysphagia due to obstruction.
“Esophageal tumor” is not a scientifically accurate term. In clinical practice, we refer to such conditions as “esophageal neoplastic lesions,” which are broadly categorized as either benign or malignant.
What are some examples of benign esophageal lesions? These include esophageal polyps, leiomyomas, and adenomas—among others—all of which are benign conditions affecting the esophagus. When small, these benign lesions typically produce no distinctive clinical symptoms. They are usually detected incidentally during gastroscopy.
Malignant esophageal lesions also occur—for instance, esophageal carcinoma. In China, the vast majority (over 99.5%) of esophageal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. In early-stage esophageal cancer, patients may experience mild dysphagia, a sensation of food sticking in the esophagus, or chest pain, among other symptoms. As the disease progresses, patients develop progressive dysphagia: initially, they may tolerate only liquids with slight discomfort or a sense of obstruction; eventually, even drinking water may become impossible.
Thus, severe esophageal obstruction may ultimately develop, to the point where patients cannot swallow even a sip of water. Therefore, any patient experiencing dysphagia or a sensation of esophageal obstruction should promptly consult a physician.
