Disappearance of local tumor of esophageal carcinoma after irradiation

Abstract The range of doses which may lead to disappearance of local tumor after radiation treatment of esophageal carcinoma is extensive. Its possibility may reach 33% if the dose exceeds 5000 rad. However, the sensitivity of this cancer varies greatly in different patients. In clinical practice, the total dose should be decided according to the response of the tumor. Disappearance of local tumor signified better prognosis than otherwise. Radiation ulcer can be easily mistaken as local recurrence. Based upon clinical symptoms and a ray film, the possibility of misdiagnosing ulceration as local recurrence after radiotherapy of more than 6000 rad was as high as 29% (12/ 42) in our experience. The pathogenesis and management of radiation ulcer in the esophagus are discussed.