What is Esophageal Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma?
Esophageal adenoid cystic carcinoma or adenoid cystic carcinoma of the esophagus is a rare type of cancer of the esophagus. It is rare cancer and is more common in women than men. It usually develops in middle-aged people. It shows a good prognosis (likely course of the disease). In very rare cases, it spread to the nearby lymph nodes and distant parts of the body thus showing a good prognosis. Esophageal adenoid cystic carcinoma is sometimes also accompanied by squamous cell carcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus is a type of cancer that arises from the flat, thin cells of the esophagus that make up the lining of the esophagus. It is more common in developing countries. Squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus usually occurs in the upper and middle part of the esophagus but can occur anywhere in the esophagus.Disease Etiology (Causes)
Smoking tobacco, chewing betel nut, drinking alcohol, an unhealthy diet and drinking very hot drinks are common causes and risk factors for developing adenoid cystic carcinoma of the esophagus.Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are- Pain while swallowing
- Hoarse voice (deep husky voice)
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Hematemesis (vomiting of blood)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Coughing while eating and drinking
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Night sweats
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are- Barium meal: This is a procedure in which the patient is asked to swallow a radio-contrast agent, commonly known as barium sulphate, and then a series of X-rays are taken to see the esophagus and stomach to find a tumour.
- Endoscopy with tumour biopsy: Endoscopy is a procedure in which an endoscope is used to see the internal hollow organs of the body to detect the pathology or disease.
What is an Endoscope?
It is an illuminated instrument that is used to see tube-like hollow organs of the body to detect pathology or disease.- Ultrasonography (USG), Computerized tomography (CT-scan), and positron emission tomography (PET-scan) are the imaging diagnostic techniques that can be used to detect the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
Treatment
In early cases, when the tumour is confined to a specific part of the esophagus and does not metastasize to other parts of the body, surgical removal of the tumour is the main treatment option. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are treatment options for advanced metastatic disease.What Support can we Give for Esophageal Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma?
Esophageal Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Esophageal Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
