Staging of squamous esophageal cancer: accuracy and value

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and computed tomography (CT) should be used as complementary methods for TNM staging of esophageal cancer. EUS is the most accurate modality for staging primary tumor and mediastinal lymph node metastases. CT should be used to detect infiltration of other mediastinal organs and distant metastases. For esophageal cancer staging magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is not superior to CT. For detection of cervical lymph node metastases percutaneous ultrasonography is appropriate. In patients with advanced distal carcinoma of the esophagus, hepatic and peritoneal metastases and intraabdominal lymph node infiltration should be ruled out by laparoscopy prior to surgery. The results of preoperative staging are relevant if the management of esophageal cancer comprises not only surgery but also endoscopic mucosectomy, primary palliative procedures, and especially neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy. Within therapeutic trials the precise staging prior to treatment is essential for analysis of the results. The value of routine postoperative staging during a follow-up program is yet unproved for esophageal cancer.