Table 1. Elements of tumor initiation in EAC and ESCC.
Factor | EAC | ESCC |
---|---|---|
Potential cell of origin | Esophageal basal progenitor cells (via transdifferentiation or reprogramming) and/or Gastric cardia progenitor cells (via migration) |
Esophageal basal progenitor cells |
Precursor lesion | Intestinal metaplasia (Barrett's esophagus) | Squamous dysplasia |
Location | Distal third of esophagus | Typically proximal two-thirds of esophagus |
Risk exposures | Age Race (white > black) Gender (males > females) GERD Obesity Cigarette smoking (EAC < ESCC) Diet (high red meat and processed foods; low fruit and vegetables) |
Age Race (black > white) Gender (males > females) Cigarette smoking (ESCC > EAC) Alcohol Nutritional deficiences HPV infection Tylosis palmaris et plantaris (inherited) |