The tests and procedures used to diagnose esophageal cancer depend on the patient’s signs and symptoms. In addition to asking about your personal and family health history and doing a physical exam, your doctor may perform the following tests and procedures:
- Chest x-ray: An x-ray of the organs and bones inside the chest. An x-ray is a type of energy beam that can go through the body and onto film, making a picture of areas inside the body.
- Esophagoscopy: A procedure to look inside the esophagus to check for abnormal areas. An esophagoscope is inserted through the mouth or nose and down the throat into the esophagus. An esophagoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument with a light and a lens for viewing. It may also have a tool to remove tissue samples, which are checked under a microscope for signs of cancer. When the esophagus and stomach are looked at, it is called an upper endoscopy. A thin, lighted tube is inserted through the mouth and into the esophagus to look for abnormal areas.
- Biopsy: The removal of cells or tissues so they can be viewed under a microscope by a pathologist to check for signs of cancer. The biopsy is usually done during an esophagoscopy. Sometimes a biopsy shows changes in the esophagus that are not cancer but may lead to cancer.
Esophageal cancer prognosis
Certain factors affect prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options. The prognosis and treatment options depend on:
- The stage of the cancer (whether it affects part of the esophagus, involves the whole esophagus, or has spread to other places in the body).
- Whether the tumor can be completely removed by surgery.
- The patient’s general health.
When esophageal cancer is found very early, there is a better chance of recovery. Esophageal cancer is often in an advanced stage when it is diagnosed. At later stages, esophageal cancer can be treated but rarely can be cured.
Joining a clinical trial may be an option. There are different types of clinical trials for people with esophageal cancer. You can use the clinical trial search to find NCI-supported cancer clinical trials that are accepting participants.
You can also review a list of all current NCI-supported Esophageal Cancer Clinical Trials. For help finding a clinical trial, contact NCI’s Cancer Information Service.