If you have been diagnosed with benign esophageal tumors, it is important to know what you need to do to get the best treatment. Although these tumors are often not a cause for concern, they can cause obstructions, bleeding, ulceration, and other symptoms. Fortunately, these symptoms can be treated. The treatment options are tailored to the patient.
Most benign esophageal tumors are asymptomatic. However, the disease can lead to swallowing difficulties and can spread to other organs in the body. For this reason, early detection is very important. This can be done by obtaining a barium esophagram, an imaging test that shows the size and location of the tumor. In addition, a medical professional can perform a biopsy on the tumor to check if it is cancerous.
Benign esophageal tumors are typically small lesions, and they can be removed by a healthcare provider. During the biopsy, a thin sample of the tumor is taken. A pathologist then studies the cells from the sample to identify the type of tumor. Leiomyomas are a type of smooth muscle tumor, and they are the most common benign esophageal tumors. They may be solitary lesions or occur in multiples. Other types of esophageal tumors include squamous papillomas, adenocarcinomas, and carcinomas. These cancers are categorized according to the type of cells they contain and their growth rate.
The tumors are generally classified into low-grade, medium-grade, and high-grade. High-grade tumors are more aggressive and have cells that divide quickly. Low-grade tumors, on the other hand, are slower-growing.
Symptoms of esophageal cancer include pain while swallowing or regurgitating food. Chest pain can be confused with heartburn. It can also lead to pneumonia or other infections. Because esophageal cancer can be difficult to detect, it is important to get it checked out right away.
In addition to a physical examination, a physician may recommend a barium esophagram or esophageal endoscopy. An endoscope is a flexible tube that is inserted into the esophagus and lighted. It is then passed down the esophagus. Once the endoscope reaches the tumor, the healthcare provider can take tissue samples. After the pathologist has identified the type of tumor, the patient can be diagnosed.
As part of a comprehensive treatment plan, patients may be referred to a clinical trial to test new drugs and treatments. When participating in a clinical trial, the FDA will review the drugs and make sure they are safe before allowing them to be used in the medical community.
The treatment for esophageal cancer is different for every person. The goal is to prolong the patient’s life and improve their quality of life. Treatment for esophageal cancer is usually individualized, and involves various kinds of tests and procedures. The treatment plan may also include radiation therapy or a nasogastric feeding tube to provide direct access to the stomach. Some patients with large tumors are recommended to have a stent implanted to keep the esophagus open.
Patients with esophageal cancer can experience pain, weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. The disease can spread to other parts of the body, including the liver and lymph nodes.
