Small-cell carcinoma of the esophagus: radiographic findings.

PURPOSE

To determine the radiographic findings of small-cell carcinoma of the esophagus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed barium studies as well as medical and pathologic records for three cases of small-cell carcinoma of the esophagus contributed to the radiologic archives of the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology.

RESULTS

Two patients presented with dysphagia and one with chest pain. In all three patients, barium studies revealed a smoothly marginated, sessile mass with a relatively flat central ulcer on the right postero-lateral wall of the midesophagus below the level of the carina. The masses all were 4-5 cm in diameter, and the ulcers were 2-3 cm in diameter. In all three patients, the results of endoscopy confirmed the presence of a sessile mass with central ulceration in the midesophagus.

CONCLUSION

Small-cell carcinomas of the esophagus can have similar findings on barium studies. Although these findings are more likely to be caused by squamous-cell carcinoma, it is important to obtain endoscopic biopsy specimens, because preoperative histologic diagnosis of small-cell carcinoma can dramatically alter the management of these cases.