Cellular Classification
Fewer than 50% of esophageal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas.
Adenocarcinomas, typically arising in Barrett esophagus, account for at least
50% of malignant lesions, and the incidence of this histology appears to be
rising. Barrett esophagus contains glandular epithelium cephalad to the
esophagogastric junction.
Three different types of glandular epithelium can be
seen:
- Metaplastic columnar epithelium.
- Metaplastic parietal cell glandular
epithelium within the esophageal wall.
- Metaplastic intestinal epithelium
with typical goblet cells.
Dysplasia is particularly likely to develop in the
intestinal type mucosa.
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors can occur in the esophagus and are usually
benign. (Refer to the PDQ summary on Adult Soft Tissue Sarcoma Treatment for
more information.)
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