Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 28, 2025

Modeling Oral-Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in 3D Organoids
Published on: December 23, 2022
An Extremely Rare Presentation of an Alpha-Fetoprotein-Producing Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Yaser Khalid1, Neethi Dasu2, Debashis Reja3
1Division of Internal Medicine, Memorial Healthcare System, Hollywood, Florida, USA.
Abstract:
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)-producing esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is an extremely rare occurrence with very few cases reported in the literature. We report the case of a 76-year-old female who presented with progressive weakness, fatigue, and a decrease in appetite for weeks and who was found to have an AFP-producing EAC with an extraordinarily high AFP level of 46,135 ng/mL. CT angiography revealed abnormal thickening of the esophagus and multiple metastatic masses throughout the liver. Upper endoscopy revealed a large mass in the distal esophagus with extension into the stomach. Biopsy confirmed the EAC. Most cases are unsuccessfully treated with surgery and chemotherapy. Serial measurement of serum AFP may be useful for monitoring clinical status and treatment response.
Related Concept Videos
Barrett Esophagus-I: Introduction
This constant acid exposure transforms the esophagus's pink mucosal lining (stratified squamous epithelium) into a type of lining more...
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...
Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Clinical Manifestations:
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...
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...
Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction

