Diagnosing Oesophageal cancer

The symptoms that people with Oesophageal cancer report are generally similar to other conditions which affect the food pipe. Symptoms of oesophageal cancer can include:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Heartburn on most days
• Persistent indigestion or pain/discomfort in the tummy, chest or back
• Bringing up food soon after eating
• Loss of appetite or weight loss
• Unusual coughing
• Hoarseness or a persistent sore throat
• Pressure in the chest

For the majority of people their symptoms won’t be caused by cancer, but it is important to get them checked out so Oesophageal cancer can either be ruled out or spotted while still in the early stages. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should make an appointment with their GP and if required, get a referral to a gastroenterologist for further tests.

The first diagnostic test is usually a gastroscopy which allows the doctor to see inside your oesophagus and stomach. However there is now a non-invasive screening alternative called Endosign which is available to Dr Haidry’s patients at the Cleveland Clinic.

Technology has made huge advances in recent years and now artificial intelligence can play a crucial role in identifying Oesophageal cancer. Dr Haidry and his team at Cleveland Clinic London have pioneered the first commercially available AI system for oesophageal cancer.

Types of Oesophageal cancer

The prognosis for patients with Oesophageal Cancer treatment is highly dependent on the type of disease diagnosed:

• Pre-cancerous – Barrett’s Oesophagus is a condition which puts patients at a higher risk of developing cancer, which is why it’s known as a pre-cancerous condition. Many people with Barrett’s will not go on to develop cancer, but will need to be closely monitored for any harmful cell changes (via regular screening endoscopies). This is so treatment can begin quickly if needed
• Cancerous – there are two main types of Oesophageal Cancer:
  • Adenocarcinoma – this usually occurs in the lower oesophagus and is linked to Barrett’s Oesophagus
  • Squamous cell carcinoma – this usually occurs in the upper oesophagus and is closely linked to smoking and alcohol consumption

Once the patient’s oesophageal cancer is confirmed it will be staged and their doctor will be able to discuss if current treatments available can cure the disease.

Treating Oesophageal cancer

The fear and worry around any cancer diagnosis is completely understandable, but patients can feel safe in the care of Dr Rehan Haidry one of the country’s leading experts in Oesophageal cancer. Dr Rehan Haidry has expertise in both curative and/or quality of life extending treatments, as well as management plans for addressing side effects of advanced disease. His focus will always offer an individualised patient plan that offers positive outcomes for patients and their families.

Treatment for curable cancer:

• • If Oesophageal cancer is caught early, it can be cured. Subtle changes to the cells at the earliest stage, known as dysplasia, can be treated with endoscopic therapies such as RFA and Cryoablation.
  • The earliest stage tumours can be removed using an endoscope (EMR and ESD are pioneering endoscopic procedures for people with Oesophageal Cancer), without the need for major surgical intervention or further treatment. Patients may need more than one endoscopic treatment, to completely remove cancerous tissues
  • In more advanced stages further surgical intervention may be considered such as removal of multiple tumours, lymph nodes and surrounding tissue to remove any risk of the cancer spreading. The surgery will also repair the digestive tract to allow it to function as effectively as possible
  • Squamous cell cancer of the oesophagus is usually very responsive to combined therapies that include endoscopic or surgical removal of cancerous tissues combined with radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Treatment of Advanced and Incurable Cancer

• • • Dr Rehan Haidry is an experienced Consultant Gastroenterologist who has supported and treated many patients with advanced stage Oesophageal cancer. Therapies may include a range of different treatments, such as laser treatment, placement of oesophageal stents to help with swallowing difficulties (or no treatment, depending entirely on the individual circumstances).

Book your appointment today to discuss your options and find the right solution for your circumstance