About oesophageal cancer

What is oesophageal cancer?

Oesophageal cancer begins when abnormal cells develop in the innermost layer of the oesophagus, called the mucosa. A tumour can start anywhere along the oesophagus. There are 2 main types:

Oesophageal adenocarcinoma – This type often starts near the gastro-oesophageal junction and is linked with Barretts oesophagus. Adenocarcinomas are the most common form of oesophageal cancer in Australia.

Oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma – This type starts in the thin, flat cells of the mucosa, which are called squamous cells. It often begins in the middle and upper part of the oesophagus.

Another type is gastro-oesophageal junction cancer. This starts where the oesophagus meets the stomach. It is usually treated like oesophageal cancer, but sometimes like stomach cancer.

If not found and treated early, oesophageal cancer can spread to nearby lymph nodes or to other parts of the body (e.g. liver and lungs). It can also grow through the oesophageal wall and into nearby organs.

The oesophagus

The oesophagus (the food pipe) is a muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. In adults, it is about 25 cm long and lies behind the windpipe, which is used for breathing.

The oesophagus is part of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which is a section of the digestive system. It takes food and liquids (including saliva) from the mouth to the stomach. A valve (sphincter) at the lower end of the oesophagus stops acid and food moving from the stomach back into the oesophagus.

Layers of tissue in the oesophageal wall

1. mucosa (inner layer) – made up of squamous cells (thin, flat cells)
2. submucosa – contains glands that make fluid (mucus), this fluid helps to move food through the oesophagus
3. muscularis propria (muscle layer) – produces contractions to help push food down the oesophagus and into the stomach
4. adventitia (outer layer) – connective tissue that supports the oesophagus.

How common is oesophageal cancer?

In Australia, about 1785 people are diagnosed with oesophageal cancer each year. Men are almost 3 times more likely than women to be diagnosed with this cancer. It is more common in people over 60, but it can occur at any age.

Guides to Best Cancer Care

An overview of what you can expect and what is recommended at every stage of oesophageal cancer care.