Esophageal Cancer Diagnosis
In most cases, the cancer of the esophagus is unable to be diagnosed until it reaches its final stages, so the exactness in the diagnosis and the process of staging is significantly important for the greatest possible result. A physician who has specialized in disorders of the gastrointestinal system may be the first provider in recognizing the symptoms of cancer of the esophagus. If the individual is experiencing any issue related to the symptoms of the cancer of the esophagus, it is necessary to get the treatment in the early stages when it is easy to be treated.
There are various types of tests by which the diagnosis of cancer of the esophagus is possible. The tests which are most commonly used are:
Endoscopy with biopsy: It is sometimes known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). This is the test that is most commonly used to be performed by a doctor will perform to test for esophageal cancer. A doctor treats the patient by a device called an endoscope, which is an elastic duct that has an attached camera that permits the doctor to see inside the body, for taking tissue samples from abnormal regions (this is also known as a biopsy).
Endoscopic ultrasonography: If the biopsy results of the patient reveal cancerous growth, then the doctor may call for endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). This is said to be one of the most error-free imaging procedures for the detection of cancer of the esophagus. The endoscopic ultrasound is used to combine two procedures in order to see within the esophagus:
- Endoscopy, in which the physician inserts a thin, lighted duct into the body of the patient.
- Ultrasound, which is used as high-frequency sound waves in order to obtain the images in detail.
PET scan: A PET scan is known as positron emission tomography. This technology is used in determining if the cancerous growth has spread to the portions beyond the esophageal region. A PET scan is used in radioactive dye in order to heighten regions of the body during the scanning session, so a doctor can see potentially cancerous regions for the treatment.
Other types of testing, which are less commonly used, including as follows:
Barium swallow: A barium swallow is also known as an esophageal, is said to be an X-ray procedure in which the individual drinks a barium-based solution and at the same time a physician monitors if it is passing through the esophagus in a proper way.
Examination of video fluoroscopic swallowing: This test is also known as a VFSE, and it is homogenous to a barium swallow. A physician records a video in digital form of your esophageal region while the person swallows.
Physical examination and history of health: An examination of the whole body to inspect the common signs of health, as well as checking for any sign of a disease, such as a lump or anything else which seems abnormal. A history of the health habits of the patient and past complaints and cures will also be taken.