A 20 year histopathological review of cancer of the oesophagus in Jos, Central Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Oesophageal cancer believed to be rare in Africa is now assuming prominence in cancer incidence. Studies in some parts of the world showed that Blacks are at higher risk of oesophageal cancer than non-Blacks. Aim: Is to describe the pattern of distribution of oesophageal cancer in our environment. The study will provide the basis for further epidemiological studies. Material and Methods: This was a hospital based study. Records of histologically confirmed cases of oesophageal cancer over a period of twenty years were analysed. The sex and age of the individual patients were obtained from the referral forms. Results: There were a total of 33 cases of oesophageal carcinoma recorded during the study period. This accounted for 1.3% of total cancer over the same period and 7.1% of gastrointestinal cancers. Out of the 33 cases, 22 (67%) were squamous cell carcinoma and 11 (33%) were adenocarcinoma. Twenty five were males and 8 females with a male, female ratio of 3:1. Majority of the patients presented with the clinical symptoms of oesophagitis, severe dysphagia and weight loss. Conclusion: The study showed that carcinoma of the oesophagus affects males predominantly. Adenocarcinoma occurred in high proportion similar to reported cases from countries of America and Europe.