How to diagnose esophageal cancer when in doubt

How to diagnose esophageal cancer?

Esophageal cancer is a malignant tumor that grows on the esophageal mucosa and has a high incidence in northern my country. In the early stage, there is generally no special behavior, usually only a foreign body sensation behind the sternum, or soreness and discomfort when swallowing; as the disease progresses, symptoms such as hoarseness, pain and discomfort behind the sternum and back, and vomiting will gradually appear. As the disease progresses, progressive dysphagia and weight loss will occur. Some patients will also experience irritating coughs and even vomiting of blood.

The main examination methods for esophageal cancer include the following:

1. Upper abdominal CT can be used to accurately determine the stage of esophageal tumors;

2. Esophageal endoscopy and biopsy can detect lesions early, diagnose esophageal cancer, and provide timely treatment;

3. Esophageal endoscopic ultrasound can visually determine the degree of infiltration of esophageal lesions and measure the enlarged lymph nodes outside the esophageal wall;

4. Esophageal X-ray barium meal angiography can preliminarily screen out patients suspected of esophageal cancer;

5. Esophageal exfoliative cytology examination is simple to operate and relatively less painful, and is suitable for group screening in areas with a high incidence of esophageal cancer.