ruokatorvisyövässä

Ruokatorvisyöpä is the Finnish term for esophageal cancer. It is a malignant tumor that arises in the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the pharynx (throat) to the stomach. Esophageal cancer can occur anywhere along the esophagus, but it is most common in the lower portion, near the stomach, or in the middle part of the esophagus.

There are two main types of esophageal cancer: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma develops in the cells that line the esophagus, while adenocarcinoma originates in the glandular cells that produce mucus, often in the lower esophagus. The prevalence of these types can vary geographically and by risk factors.

Risk factors for ruokatorvisyöpä include long-term tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), obesity, and a diet low in fruits and vegetables. Barrett's esophagus, a condition where the lining of the esophagus changes due to chronic acid exposure, is a significant precursor to adenocarcinoma.

Symptoms may not appear until the cancer is advanced. Common signs include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), pain or discomfort in the chest, unintentional weight loss, persistent heartburn, and hoarseness. Diagnosis typically involves medical history, physical examination, endoscopy with biopsy, imaging studies like CT scans or PET scans, and sometimes barium swallow tests.

Treatment options depend on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. These can include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these modalities. Palliative care may be used to manage symptoms and improve quality of life in advanced cases. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for a better prognosis.