Oesophageal Squamous Dysplasia

Excerpt

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the oesophagus is the most common neoplasia of the oesophagus worldwide [1]. In Australia, the incidence of oesophageal SCC is approximately 1 in 100,000 with males having a higher predilection [2]. The diagnosis is predominantly through endoscopic examination of the oesophagus. The overall incidence of oesophageal SCC has been trending downward over the last several decades [3, 4]. Western countries, in particular, have lower rates with some South African and Middle Eastern countries experiencing rates exceeding 100 in 100,000 [3]. Males are diagnosed with SCC in a ratio upwards of eight to one [4]. It represents a significant disease burden, associated with substantial morbidity, quality of life and a poor prognosis. Oesophageal cancer is graded by the TNM system which divides the carcinoma based on the depth of invasion through mucosa, submucosa and into adjacent structures [5]. …