Esophagus CT Appearances

Esophageal Cancer CT Findings

• Wall thickening > 5mm
• Infiltrative
• Ulcerative
• Periesophageal soft tissue and fat stranding
• Dilated lumen
• Lumen filled with fluid and/or debris

Other Information About Esophageal Cancer

Etiology:

• Unknown
• Smoking, heavy alcohol consumption and obesity increase the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma
• Barrett’s esophagus, chronic acid reflux and achalasia increase risk of esophageal cancer

Epidemiology:

• More common in males
• Typically presents after age

Presentation:

• Dysphagia
• Chest pain
• Cough or hoarse voice
• Weight loss
• Heartburn

Prognosis:

• The 5-year relative survival rate for all esophageal cancers is:
  • Localized: 48%
  • Regional: 28%
  • Distant: 5%
  • All SEER stages combined: 22%

Related Pearls: Tumors

Related Lectures:
CT of the Esophagus: Pearls and Pitfalls in the ER - Part 2