What is Sarcomatoid Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Esophagus?
Sarcomatoid squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus is a rare type of esophageal cancer. Five-year survival rate ranges from 15% to 30%. It is a high-grade cancer that spreads rapidly and tends to spread to other parts of the body, especially nearby lymph nodes.
Disease Etiology (Causes)
There is no well-known cause; however, Smoking tobacco, chewing betel nut, drinking alcohol, an unhealthy diet, chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease and drinking very hot drinks are the risk factors for developing squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus.
Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing)
- Chest pain
- The feeling of pressure on the chest
- Burning in chest, heartburn
- Hoarseness of voice
- Hematemesis (vomiting of blood)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Coughing while eating and drinking
In advance metastatic (spread of the tumour to a distant part of the body) cases the patient may also suffer from the B symptoms. These are
- 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 resection (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 Squamous cell carcinoma with Sarcomatoid features of the Esophagus?
Squamous cell carcinoma with Sarcomatoid features of the Esophagus 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 Squamous cell carcinoma with Sarcomatoid features of the Esophagus, 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:
