Management of elderly patients with esophageal squamous cell cancer

This review focuses on the treatment about elderly esophageal cancer to clarify the current situation regarding our clinical question. Although there are several reviews about elderly esophageal cancer treatment, there are fundamental differences between Japan and the rest of the world. Two main differences are raised: histological differences and treatment strategies for resectable patients. We overview each status according to following clinical questions. First, there are no established evaluation criteria for frail. Second, selection criteria for surgery or non-surgery are not established. Third, few specific treatments for elderly patients (EPs) are investigated. In conclusion, there are many reports about treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma for EPs, although treatment strategy is still controversial. We have to consider well-designed prospective trial to confirm specific treatment strategy according to each stage.

Automated summary

This review focuses on the treatment of elderly esophageal cancer and clarifies the current situation. The review highlights the fundamental differences between Japan and the rest of the world in terms of histological differences and treatment strategies for resectable patients. The authors also discuss the lack of established evaluation criteria for frailty, the absence of selection criteria for surgery or non-surgery, and the limited research on specific treatments for elderly patients. Overall, there are many reports on the treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in elderly patients, although the optimal treatment strategy remains controversial.