Esophageal Cancer: Which Department Should You Visit?

Esophageal cancer, also known as esophageal carcinoma, is a malignant tumor that originates in the mucosa of the esophagus. Common symptoms include progressive difficulty swallowing, a sensation of food sticking in the throat, chest discomfort behind the breastbone, acid reflux, and heartburn. If a patient experiences these symptoms and a clear diagnosis has not been made, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterology department for initial evaluation and differential diagnosis.

To confirm the condition, physicians typically perform a series of diagnostic tests, such as endoscopy, upper gastrointestinal barium swallow, and chest CT scans. These assessments, combined with histopathological analysis, help in accurately diagnosing and differentiating esophageal cancer from other similar conditions.

Once a diagnosis is confirmed and surgical treatment is deemed appropriate, patients should then visit the thoracic surgery department for further management. Surgical intervention may involve removing the affected portion of the esophagus and reconstructing the digestive tract, depending on the stage and location of the tumor.

However, if the cancer has progressed beyond the operable stage, patients should seek care from the oncology or radiation therapy departments for alternative treatment options. These may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of both to control tumor growth and alleviate symptoms.

In cases where severe dysphagia significantly impacts a patient's quality of life and nutritional intake, and surgery is no longer an option, endoscopic stent placement in the gastroenterology department can provide effective relief. This minimally invasive procedure helps restore the patient's ability to eat comfortably and improves overall well-being.