Small-cell carcinoma of the esophagus. Treatment by endoscopy

Surg Endosc. 1990;4(2):118-21. doi: 10.1007/BF00591274.

Abstract

A case of primary carcinoma of the esophagus is presented that consisted of poorly differentiated small-cell carcinoma. The patient underwent endoscopic treatment, first with an Nd:YAG laser and, finally, with bougienage and the insertion of a prosthesis in order to relieve dysphagia and improve the nutritional status and quality of life. Even though it is generally uncommon for laser therapy to be chosen as a primary mode of treatment, the results obtained should permit to overcome this lack of confidence in the choice of laser treatment for small-cell carcinoma of the esophagus.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Carcinoma, Small Cell / complications
  • Carcinoma, Small Cell / therapy*
  • Deglutition Disorders / etiology
  • Deglutition Disorders / therapy
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / complications
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Esophagoscopy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy / methods*
  • Light Coagulation
  • Male
  • Palliative Care
  • Prostheses and Implants