Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Modeling Oral-Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in 3D Organoids
Published on: December 23, 2022
Late esophageal toxicity after radiation therapy for head and neck cancer
Allen M Chen1, Bao-Qing Li, Richard L S Jennelle
1Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, Sacramento, California 95817, USA. allen.chen@ucdmc.ucdavis.edu
Background:
The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of esophageal toxicity after radiation therapy for head and neck cancer.
Methods:
The records of 211 patients treated by radiation therapy for head and neck cancer were reviewed to identify those with dysphagia lasting more than 90 days after therapy. Late toxicity criteria established by the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group were used to score the symptoms.
Results:
The incidence of grade 3+ esophageal toxicity at 3 and 6 months was 30% and 19%, respectively. The rate of gastrotomy-tube dependence at 3 and 6 months was 20% and 11%, respectively. Hypopharyngeal and unknown primary site (p = .01, for both), T4 disease (p = .01), and the use of concurrent chemotherapy (p = .001) were associated with grade 3+ esophageal toxicity and stricture formation.
Conclusion:
A significant proportion of patients exhibit symptoms of esophageal toxicity after radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. Therefore, preventive strategies need further investigation.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Strictures-I: Introduction
Etiology
The primary cause of esophageal strictures is long-standing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), accounting for about 70 to 80% of adult cases. Chronic acid reflux can lead to injury and scarring of the esophageal lining, culminating in...
Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure entails...
Esophageal Achalasia
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists
Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Clinical Manifestations: