Esophageal cancer treatment with chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is an essential treatment for esophageal cancer. It involves using powerful drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy also improves the patient's quality of life and increases their lifespan. In addition, it can help reduce the chances of the cancer returning. Studies have shown that chemotherapy can help shrink the tumor in up to 40-50% of patients with esophageal cancer, making subsequent surgery easier and more successful. Moreover, the therapy can help manage symptoms and improve survival rates for people with advanced cancer. Before the start, doctors make a standard evaluation, including a physical exam. Then, a consultation with a gastroenterologist-oncologist is given. Lab tests help assess the patient's suitability for chemotherapy. Specific diagnostic studies like X-ray with a barium swallow, endoscopic ultrasound imaging, and a CT scan of the abdomen and chest help the doctors decide the best treatment course. If chemotherapy is deemed suitable, some patients may need a port. It allows for more accessible and less painful administration of chemo drugs. The patient then begins their first course of systemic chemo. It is usually administered in a hospital. The number of sessions will depend on how the cancer responds to the drugs. After each chemo session, the patient receives care to manage any side effects.