Asymptomatic Presentation of Invasive Adenocarcinoma of the Esophagus: A Case Report

Abstract

Esophageal and gastroesophageal junction cancers are of the malignancies that are often associated with a poor prognosis, making it one of the most common causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Common symptoms include dysphagia, odynophagia, cough, regurgitation of solid food, and weight loss. This case outlines a rare presentation of a large esophageal adenocarcinoma. Case Presentation: An 84-year-old male with a history of colonic polyps was scheduled for esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy for evaluation of right upper quadrant pain, dyspepsia due to dysmotility, and frequent bowel movements. There were no complaints of dysphagia, pain, or unexplained weight loss. A 1.5-1.8-centimeter nodule at the gastroesophageal junction was discovered and biopsied. The pathology report showed adenocarcinoma with scattered signet rings on a background of acute inflammatory changes. The patient was subsequently referred to an otolaryngologist for further evaluation and management. Discussion: Esophageal adenocarcinoma may present in a variety of ways, and in some early cases show no signs or symptoms. This patient presented with a large malignant nodule with no signs or symptoms related to the lesion. Maintaining a broad differential diagnosis in patients with vague, unexplained symptoms may help lead to the discovery of serious disease.