Squamous esophageal cancer starts in the cells that line the inner part of the esophagus (the mucosa). The squamous cell layer is usually flat, but it can become irregular and form tumors. This cancer can spread to other parts of the body through the lymph or blood. If the cancer spreads to other organs, it is called metastatic squamous esophageal carcinoma.
Squamous cell cancer of the esophagus is the most common type of esophageal cancer in the United States. Smoking and a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are risk factors for this cancer.
Many people with squamous esophageal Cancer have trouble swallowing. This is because the tumor may grow and block the opening of the esophagus, or it may cause inflammation that makes it difficult to swallow. People with squamous esophageal cell cancer can also have trouble breathing. If the cancer grows rapidly, it may spread to other organs in the body.
There are two other types of cancer that start in the esophagus, but they are less common. One of these is adenocarcinoma, which starts in gland cells that make mucus that helps you swallow. It is most often found in the area where the esophagus joins the stomach (the GE junction). Adenocarcinomas can also begin in the lower part of the esophagus, but these are much less common.
Different types of esophageal cancer develop in different ways, and each requires a specific treatment plan. You should discuss the best options with your healthcare provider.
The information in this PDQ is based on scientific research. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.
This PDQ cancer information summary has current information about the treatment of squamous esophageal (ESCC) cancer in adults. It is based on an independent review of the medical literature. It is written for patients, families, and caregivers. It does not contain research results on whether a particular treatment works or is safe for everyone.
The PDQ cancer information summaries are developed and reviewed by a panel of experts. This panel includes doctors, nurses, and other health professionals who are leaders in their field. These experts have agreed on what is important in making decisions about a patient’s care. They have also voted on which statements should be included in this PDQ. This PDQ is updated regularly as new evidence becomes available. These experts are members of the NCI Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program. This program is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). NIH is the federal government’s center for biomedical research. This PDQ was last reviewed in December 2018. The information in this summary is accurate as of that date. The information should be interpreted with the understanding that no single expert can provide complete, definitive guidance for all situations. Patients and their health care providers should always talk to each other and work together to decide on the best course of action for each individual situation.
