Esophageal Cancer
Lee Health: Treating Esophageal Cancer
The Lee Health Cancer Institute is dedicated to providing exceptional care for esophageal cancer patients. We bring together a multidisciplinary team for comprehensive services and treatments personalized for each patient. Our cancer resources are accessible and conveniently located for residents from Cape Coral, Naples, Fort Myers, Port Charlotte, and Bonita Springs.
What is esophageal cancer?
Esophageal cancer develops when abnormal cells in the esophagus grow uncontrollably forming a tumor. It mainly forms in two types, adenocarcinoma (the most common type) and squamous cell carcinoma. Your esophagus is elastic and can stretch to accommodate the tumor as it develops. Usually, the cancer spreads quickly. This explains why symptoms frequently don't appear until the cancer has spread.
What are the symptoms of esophageal cancer?
Patients experiencing cancer have reported difficulty swallowing as the first symptom. Other symptoms may include:
- Hoarseness or uncontrollable cough
- Vomiting
- Coughing up blood
- Weight loss
- Pain in the throat
How is esophageal cancer diagnosed and treated?
Esophageal cancer is diagnosed using several tests, including CT scans and PET scans, endoscopy with biopsy, and occasionally further staging procedures for determining the cancer's spread.
The stage of the disease, the location of the tumor, and the patient's general condition all affect the types of esophageal cancer treatment that are available. Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery to remove the malignant tissue or a combination of these treatments may be used as a form of treatment.
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Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Cancer Clinic - Bonita Health Center
3501 Health Center Blvd Estero, FL 34135
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