OCCURRENCE OF ESOPHAGEAL CARCINOMA IN DIFFERENT AGE GROUP IN KARACHI

Abstract

Objectives: To determine frequency and histological variant of esophageal cancer in different age groups, in Karachi where the tobacco, smoking, Gutka and hot tea are mostly taken even in younger age group.

Methods: This was a retrospective study over a period of 2 years which was designed to assess age incidence for esophageal carcinoma in Karachi of Pakistan. A total of 180 already diagnosed carcinomas of the esophagus were included in the study, all these cases were from Civil Hospital, Sindh Government Lyari General Hospital and Government Services Hospital, Karachi with necessary clinical data. All specimens were stained with Haemotoxylin and eosin (H&E) and examined microscopically. The demography of the disease and types of carcinoma were evaluated.

Result: Out of 180 diagnosed cases of esophageal carcinomas, squamous cell carcinoma was the found in 90 (50 %) cases from 61 to 70 years of age and minimum 02 (1%) cases from 31 to 40 years of age, 82 (45%) cases were found in 51 to 60 years of age and 6 (3%) cases from 41 to 50 years of age. The highest occurrence of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (80%) is found in eldest age group.it is more common in male gender 60%.

Conclusion: There is a moderately high incidence of esophagus cancer in Karachi & most common in old age with a male predominance. It is common in Pakistan and can occur in people who are heavy smoker, chewing tobacco & gutka used hot tea, spicy food and alcohol. The Squamous cell carcinoma of esophagus is more common than other types of esophageal carcinoma.

Key Words: Esophageal carcinoma, esophageal adenocarcinoma, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.