What are the different types of esophageal cancer?
There are two main types of esophageal cancer. The most common type of esophageal cancer, known as adenocarcinoma, develops in the glandular tissue in the lower part of the esophagus, near the opening of the stomach. It occurs in just over 50 percent of cases. Squamous cell carcinoma grows in the cells that form the top layer of the lining of the esophagus, known as squamous cells. This type of cancer can grow anywhere along the esophagus. Treatment for both types of esophageal cancer is similar. What are the symptoms of esophageal cancer? Often, there are no symptoms in the early stages of esophageal cancer. Symptoms do not appear until the disease is more advanced. The following are the most common symptoms of esophageal cancer. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: • difficult or painful swallowing A condition known as dysphagia is the most common symptom of esophageal cancer. This gives a sensation of having food lodged in the chest, an
