Esophageal cancer

Surveillance strategies after successful treatment for esophageal cancer are controversial. Approximately 90% of relapses occur within the first 2 years after completion of local therapy.[15]National Comprehensive Cancer Network. NCCN clinical practice guidelines in oncology: esophageal and esophagogastric junction cancers [internet publication]. https://www.nccn.org/guidelines/category_1 ​ Patients are generally seen on an outpatient basis 2-3 weeks after discharge. Thereafter, follow-up visits with a physical exam (which may include imaging tests, blood tests, and endoscopy) may be recommended every 3-6 months for the first 2 years after treatment.[256]American Cancer Society. Living as an esophagus cancer survivor. Jun 2020 [internet publication]. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/esophagus-cancer/after-treatment/follow-up.html Subsequent follow-up may be at 6- to 12-month intervals for the next 3 years. Follow-up visits should concentrate on symptoms, nutrition, and psychosocial support; care is often provided by a multidisciplinary team including surgeons, dietitians, radiologists, gastroenterologists, psychologists, and social workers.[88]Obermannová R, Alsina M, Cervantes A, et al; ESMO Guidelines Committee. Oesophageal cancer: ESMO clinical practice guideline for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Ann Oncol. 2022 Oct;33(10):992-1004. https://www.annalsofoncology.org/article/S0923-7534(22)01850-6/fulltext http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/35914638?tool=bestpractice.com

Due to increased risk of early recurrence, patients who have experienced complete response to definitive chemoradiation therapy should be considered for endoscopy, biopsies, and computed tomography (CT) scan at 3 months.[88]Obermannová R, Alsina M, Cervantes A, et al; ESMO Guidelines Committee. Oesophageal cancer: ESMO clinical practice guideline for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Ann Oncol. 2022 Oct;33(10):992-1004. https://www.annalsofoncology.org/article/S0923-7534(22)01850-6/fulltext http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/35914638?tool=bestpractice.com

Routine esophageal cancer-specific surveillance is not recommended for more than 5 years following completion of treatment.[15]National Comprehensive Cancer Network. NCCN clinical practice guidelines in oncology: esophageal and esophagogastric junction cancers [internet publication]. https://www.nccn.org/guidelines/category_1 Annual examination and history may be considered because second primary cancers may occur.