A review of esophageal cancer research: emerging trends, progress and perspectives

Cancer research · Esophageal cancer · TP53 · EGFR

Recent developments in chemotherapy, immunotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, and stem cell therapies offer new hope, although various challenges persist in achieving effective treatment outcomes.

Esophageal cancer (EC), which includes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), remains one of the most lethal cancers worldwide, characterized by significant morbidity and mortality rates. ESCC predominates in East Asia, while EAC is more prevalent in Western countries, influenced by risk factors such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), obesity, alcohol, and tobacco use. Despite advancements in diagnosis, staging, and treatment over the past decades, the prognosis for EC patients remains poor, with low five‑year survival rates. Recent developments in chemotherapy, immunotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, and stem cell therapies offer new hope, although various challenges persist in achieving effective treatment outcomes. Emerging biomarkers and precision medicine approaches are being explored to tailor treatments to individual genetic profiles. Additionally, this review explores surgical techniques, including minimally invasive esophagectomy, and palliative care options such as stents for dysphagia relief. This comprehensive review synthesizes the latest research on epidemiology, pathogenesis, and both standard and novel therapeutic strategies for ESCC and EAC, highlighting potential improvements in survival rates and quality of life. We examine current clinical management approaches, ongoing controversies, and future directions in EC treatment, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of available therapies and promote the development of innovative treatment options to enhance patient outcomes.

Understanding the distinct molecular mechanisms driving these two subtypes is crucial for developing targeted therapies and improving patient outcomes.

Evidence level: Sejtvonalas. Laboratóriumi sejtekben vizsgálták.

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