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Esophageal Cancers
Esophageal cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the esophagus grow uncontrollably, often without early symptoms. Recognizing risk factors and warning signs like difficulty swallowing and weight loss enables timely diagnosis. In Houston, Dr. Scott provides expert evaluation, treatments, and support.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Long-term acid reflux or Barrett's esophagus
Heavy alcohol use
Smoking or chewing tobacco
Being overweight or having a poor diet
Age over 50 and male gender
Family history of esophageal or digestive cancers
Signs and Symptoms
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Unintended weight loss
Chest or back pain
Persistent heartburn or indigestion
Hoarseness or a chronic cough
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your symptoms-especially epigastric pain, difficulty swallowing, heartburn-and assesses risk factors such as long-term acid reflux, tobacco or alcohol use, weight changes, and family history of digestive cancers.
Upper Endoscopy with Biopsy
Dr. Scott performs an endoscopic examination of the esophagus to directly visualize abnormal areas and obtain tissue samples for pathological analysis.
Imaging Studies
CT Scan of chest and abdomen to evaluate tumor size and detect nearby lymph node involvement.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) to determine how deeply the tumor has invaded the esophageal wall and to sample regional lymph nodes.
PET/CT Scan to identify distant metastases and assess the metabolic activity of suspicious lesions.
Staging and Multidisciplinary Review
All findings are combined to assign an accurate stage. Dr. Scott then collaborates with surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and nutrition specialists to craft a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for esophageal cancer.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Eat smaller, more frequent meals to ease swallowing
Avoid spicy, greasy, or highly acidic foods that irritate the esophagus
Elevate your head during sleep to reduce nighttime reflux
Maintain a healthy weight and stay active to support overall healing
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers to control acid reflux
High-calorie nutritional supplements or shakes to prevent unintended weight loss
Pain management and anti-nausea medications as needed during treatment
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic mucosal resection for small, early‐stage tumors
Minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopic or robotic-assisted) for tumor removal
Combined chemotherapy and radiation therapy when indicated
Targeted therapies and immunotherapy for advanced or metastatic disease
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all esophageal cancers fatal?
Not at all. When found early, many people recover well with treatment and ongoing care.
What is gastroesophageal junction cancer?
It starts where the esophagus meets the stomach. It may behave differently and often requires specialized treatment planning.
Can acid reflux cause cancer?
Yes. Long-term acid reflux can lead to Barrett's esophagus, a condition that raises the risk of developing esophageal cancer.
How is esophageal cancer diagnosed?
An upper endoscopy with biopsy is the primary test. Imaging studies like CT or PET scans are used to stage the cancer.
Does alcohol increase my risk?
Yes. Heavy drinking-especially when combined with smoking or tobacco use-significantly raises your risk of esophageal and head and neck cancers.
Will I need nutrition support?
Possibly. If swallowing becomes difficult, Dr. Scott may recommend nutrition shakes or a temporary feeding tube to maintain your strength.
When should I see a doctor?
If you experience any warning signs-such as persistent difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing chest pain-seek medical evaluation right away. Early care can improve outcomes.
