Overview

The esophagus wall has several layers. The two most common types of esophageal cancer are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Squamous cell carcinomas occur in the inside lining layer of the esophagus, often in the upper and middle portions, whereas adenocarcinomas begin in the glandular cells and occur in the lower esophagus near the stomach.

Benefits of Proton Therapy

• High-energy, precisely-targeted proton beams can deliver high doses of radiation to destroy cancerous cells, reducing recurrence rates for many cancer cases.
• Proton therapy is non-invasive and may reduce side effects.
• Patients treated with proton therapy may have increased tolerance for chemotherapy.
• Patients can maintain their current quality of life during and after treatment.
• It is sometimes used effectively to treat areas that have already been treated with radiation.

Source: American Cancer Society, American Society of Clinical Oncology, National Cancer Institute, and Texas Cancer Registry