[Differential diagnosis of esophageal cancer by using mathematical decision rules]

It is suggested to use the medico-mathematical "decisive rules" for the differential diagnosis of esophageal cancer in non-specialized medical institutions. As the first step the examination cards were written, based on the data of 1195 patients with verified diagnosis. The "decisive rules" were worked out basing on the examination cards of 597 patients (in 267--esophageal cancer and in 330--benign lesions: cardiospasm, benign tumors, cysts, burn and scarring strictures, esophagitis, diverticulum). The suggested "decisive rules" using 63 and 87 clinical signs were tested elsewhere for a retrospective diagnosis in 167 patients. Using the "decisive rules" with 63 clinical signs esophageal cancer was recognized in 96% of cases, non-cancer--in 92%, while using 87 signs--in 92 and 94% accordingly. The rule comprising 63 signs-questions is recommended for practical purposes.