Steven A. Sandler, M.D.
Board-Certified in
Hematology & Oncology
Telephone Numbers
Office: (847) 933-0875
Fax: (847) 933-0878
Answering Service: (773) 594-7340
Skokie Office
9669 Kenton, Suite 510
Skokie, IL 60076
Map and directions
Chicago Office
7447 W. Talcott Ave., Suite 318
Chicago, IL 60631
Map and directions
Call us at 847-933-0875 or send Dr. Sandler a message via the form below. Please note that this form is for non-emergencies only.
Esophageal Cancer Information and Treatment
About Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer can occur anywhere along the lining of the esophagus (the tube which food goes through from the mouth to the stomach). Although it is relatively uncommon in the United States, accounting for about 1% of the total diagnosed cancers, the incidence of esophageal cancer has been increasing. One factor contributing to this trend is rising rates of obesity, which increases the risk of one form of esophageal cancer.
The two types of esophageal cancer are squamous cell carcinoma, cancer that begins in flat cells lining the esophagus, and adenocarcinoma, cancer that begins in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids.
Signs and symptoms may include:
- Difficulty or painful swallowing with a burning sensation
- Weight loss as a result of decreased eating
- Unusually husky or raspy change in voice
- Nausea and vomiting
- Coughing and regurgitation of food
- Aspiration Pneumonia
Esophageal Cancer Treatment
The treatment of esophageal cancer has improved significantly. Patients who have difficulty swallowing can often benefit from an esophageal stent. For other patients a combination of chemotherapy and radiation has been successful. A new drug called Erbitux, an antibody directed against the tumor, has been used successfully. The combination of Erbitux with chemotherapy and radiation therapy has been incredibly successful for patients at Sandler Cancer Treatment Centers. We also have patients who are candidates for surgery after careful monitoring. It is uncommon for most patients to be treated with just one type of treatment; a combination of surgery and chemotherapy is usually used.
