Navigating an esophageal cancer diagnosis
Esophageal cancer refers to cancer that originates in the cells lining the esophagus, the tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. It can develop in any part of the esophagus and may spread to nearby tissues or other areas of the body if not detected early.
At Penn Medicine, our expert pathologists, radiologists, and gastroenterologists have decades of experience in accurately detecting both common and rare types of esophageal cancer. Using the most advanced diagnostic tools available, our nationally respected specialists are dedicated to providing precise diagnoses and are deeply committed to improving your quality of life.
Esophageal cancer staging
After cancer is diagnosed, a series of tests are used to investigate the extent of the cancer and to see whether it has spread to other parts of the body from where it started. Staging is a way of recording the size and growth of a cancer and determining the treatment plan.
- Stage 0: Abnormal cells are found only in the inner layer of tissue lining the esophagus. This stage is also called carcinoma in situ.
- Stage I: The cancer has grown through the inner layer of tissue to the next layer in the wall of the esophagus.
- Stage II: The cancer has spread to the esophageal muscle, outer wall of the esophagus, or nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage III: The cancer has spread to the outer wall of the esophagus and may have spread to tissues or lymph nodes near the esophagus.
- Stage IV: The cancer has spread to nearby or distant lymph nodes or organs in other parts of the body.
A Penn Medicine oncologist can help clarify any questions you have about the stages of esophageal cancer and explain what they mean for your prognosis and esophageal cancer treatment options.
Collaborative care helps ensure an accurate diagnosis
At Penn Medicine, esophageal cancer diagnosis and staging is a team effort. Our experts’ close collaboration ensures we thoroughly review and discuss all aspects of your case. A well-informed diagnosis offers the best chance for effective treatment.
When you choose Penn Medicine, you benefit from our:
- Diagnostic precision: Subspecialty training provides our gastrointestinal experts with a thorough understanding of rare and complex esophageal cancers. We diagnose hard-to-detect cases some doctors seldom see.
- Customized cancer risk evaluations: A small percentage of esophageal cancer cases have a genetic link. The specialists at Penn Medicine’s Gastrointestinal Cancer Genetics Program can help you identify cancer risk factors and options to protect your health.
- Screening options for people with a high risk: If certain conditions, such as Barrett’s esophagus, put you at increased risk, your doctor may recommend regular testing to monitor for precancerous changes in the esophagus. Screening procedures help our specialists detect and remove abnormal cells in the esophagus before they turn into cancer.
Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute
Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.