Search

It is occasionally difficult to diagnose cT3 or cT4b using imaging examinations for esophageal cancer. The optimal treatment strategy for borderline resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (BR-ESCC) is unclear.We included 131 patients with cT3 ESCC who received neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) followed by surgery. The patients were classified as having definitive cT3 (D-cT3) or borderline resectable cT3 (BR-cT3), based on presence of undeniable adjacent organ invasion on pretreatment CT. Surgical outcomes and prognoses were compared among patients with D-cT3 and BR-cT3 tumors, and the risk factors for non-R0 resection were assessed.Ninety and 41 patients were classified as D-cT3 and BR-cT3, respectively. Although BR-cT3 had a significantly higher non-R0 resection rate than D-cT3 (D-cT3 3.7%; BR-cT3 14.6%), BR-cT3 was not correlated with shorter overall survival (OS) (D-cT3 5-year OS, 50.8%; BR-cT3 5-year OS 38.4%; p = 0.234). Conversely, non-R0 resection was significantly associated with poor OS (R0 resection 5-year OS 48.8%; non-R0 resection 5-year OS 22.2%; p = 0.031). Cox regression analysis of OS demonstrated that BR-cT3 was not a prognostic factor. In the analysis of risk factors for non-R0 resection, BR-cT3 (p = 0.027), suspected invasion of the trachea or bronchus (p = 0.046), and high SUVmax of the primary lesion after NCRT (p = 0.002) were risk factors.NCRT followed by surgery achieved a relatively high R0 resection rate and an almost equal overall survival rate for BR-cT3 compared with D-cT3 ESCC. Thus, NCRT followed by surgery is an effective treatment strategy for patients with BR-cT3 ESCC.

Yoichi Hamai, Manabu Emi, Yuta Ibuki, Tomoaki Kurokawa, Toru Yoshikawa, Manato Ohsawa, Ryosuke Hirohata, Nao Kitasaki, Morihito Okada Department of Surgical Oncology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, JapanCorrespondence: Yoichi Hamai, Department of Surgical Oncology, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-Ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan, Tel +81 822575869, Fax +81 822567109, Email yyhamai@hiroshima-u.ac.jpPurpose: Various blood cell parameters have been identified as predictive markers of tumor responses and the survival of patients with cancer treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. The purpose of this study is to assess the ability of various blood cell parameters to predict therapeutic effects and survival in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) treated with nivolumab monotherapy.Patients and Methods: We evaluated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte (PLR) and lymphocyte-to-monocyte (LMR) ratios as predictive markers of patients’ survival and effects of nivolumab monotherapy after one or more prior chemotherapies for unresectable advanced or recurrent ESCC.Results: The objective response and disease control rates were 20.3% and 47.5%, respectively. The LMRs before, and 14 and 28 days after nivolumab initiation were significantly higher in patients with complete response (CR)/partial response (PR)/stable disease (SD) than those with progressive disease (PD). The NLRs at 14 and 28 days after nivolumab initiation were significantly lower in patients with CR/PR/SD than with PD. The optimal cutoffs for these parameters significantly discriminated patients with CR/PR/SD and PD. Univariate and multivariate analyses identified pretreatment NLRs as a significant independent factor for progression-free and overall survival (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07– 1.32, and HR 1.23, 95% CI: 1.11– 1.37, respectively; p ≤ 0.001 for both).Conclusion: The pretreatment LMRs, and NLR and LMR at 14 and 28 days after starting nivolumab monotherapy were significantly associated with the clinical therapeutic effect. The pretreatment NLR was significantly associated with patients’ survival. These blood cell parameters before and during the early days of nivolumab monotherapy can help to identify patients with ESCC who would most likely benefit from nivolumab monotherapy.Keywords: biomarkers, cancer, esophagus, immunotherapy, response, survival

Gastric carcinoma (GC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. To better understand the genetic basis of this disease, we performed serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE) on four primary GC samples and one associated lymph node metastasis. We obtained a total of 137,706 expressed tags (Gene Expression Omnibus accession number GSE 545, SAGE Hiroshima gastric cancer tissue), including 38,903 that were unique. Comparing tags from our GC libraries containing different stages and different histologies, we found several genes and tags that are potentially involved in invasion, metastasis, and carcinogenesis. Among these, we selected 27 genes and measured mRNA expression levels in an additional 46 GC samples by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. Frequently overexpressed genes (tumor/normal ratio > 2) were COL1A1 (percentage of cases with overexpression, 78.3%), CDH17 (73.9%), APOC1 (67.4%), COL1A2 (58.7%), YF13H12 (52.2%), CEACAM6 (50.0%), APOE (50.0%), REGIV (47.8%), S100A11 (41.3%), and FUS (41.3%). Among these genes, mRNA expression levels of CDH17 and APOE were associated with depth of tumor invasion (P = 0.0060 and P = 0.0139, respectively), and those of FUS and APOE were associated with degree of lymph node metastasis (P = 0.0416 and P = 0.0006, respectively). In addition, mRNA expression levels of FUS, COL1A1, COL1A2, and APOE were associated with stage (P = 0.0414, P = 0.0156, P = 0.0395, and P = 0.0125, respectively). Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR analysis also showed a high level of REGIV expression (>100 arbitrary units) in 14 of 46 GC samples (30.4%) but not in noncancerous tissues. We detected V5-tagged RegIV protein in the culture media of cells transfected with pcDNA-RegIV-V5 by Western blot. Our results provide a list of candidate genes that are potentially involved in invasion, metastasis, and carcinogenesis of GC. REGIV may serve as a specific biomarker for GC.

Supplementary Figure Legends from Gene Expression Profile of Gastric Carcinoma

Supplementary Figures from Gene Expression Profile of Gastric Carcinoma

Supplementary Tables from Gene Expression Profile of Gastric Carcinoma

Trimodal therapy is frequently used for patients with locally advanced, resectable oesophageal cancer. However, it does not provide a satisfactory prognosis. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is an important indicator of patients' inflammatory and immune statuses. We investigated the prognostic role of NLR values obtained at different treatment stages in patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma.We evaluated the correlation between NLR values or their change and prognosis at each treatment point (before chemoradiotherapy; before surgery; and at 14 days, and 1 and 2 months postoperatively) in 163 patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma who underwent oesophagectomy after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy from April 2003 to August 2018. The outcomes studied were overall (OS) and relapse-free (RFS) survival.The NLR at 1 month postoperatively showed the strongest correlation with prognosis, with an optimal cut-off value of 4.5 (area under the curve=0.7878; 95% confidence interval=0.70-0.85; p0.0001). Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that NLR ≥4.5 was a significant factor for both RFS (hazard ratio=4.44, 95% confidence interval=2.69-7.34) and OS (hazard ratio=3.88, 95% confidence interval=2.38-6.32). Furthermore, NLR significantly stratified patients for the RFS and OS regardless of the pathological response (complete/non-complete response) and postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo gradeIIIa/≥ IIIa).NLR measurement at 1 month postoperatively correlated with prognosis and was also a useful predictor of recurrence. Patients with high NLRs need more rigorous follow-up as they constitute a high-risk group. Postoperative adjuvant therapy may also be considered for such patients.

Background/Aim: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) followed by surgery is a standard treatment for patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer. This study aimed to identify patients who might be eligible for postoperative adjuvant therapy. Patients and Methods: We reviewed the surgical outcomes of 84 patients who received NAC followed by esophagectomy to treat esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and revealed prognostic factors associated with locally advanced ESCC. Results: Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed the pretreatment level of squamous cell carcinoma-related antigen [SCC-A; hazard ratio (HR)=1.50, p=0.01], ypT ≥3 (HR=2.51; p=0.04), ypN ≥1 (HR=5.87; p=0.01), ypM1 (HR=2.38; p=0.049), and lymphovascular invasion (HR=3.12, p=0.049) as significant independent covariates for recurrence-free survival (RFS). The 5-year RFS rates for patients with 0-1, 2-3, or 4-5 of these indicators of poor prognosis were 97.1%, 51.2%, and 6.7% (p≤0.001 for all). Recurrence rates among these groups also significantly differed at 2.9%, 50.0%, and 93.3% (p

To identify the correlations between theWe assessed the correlations between the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of primary tumors as reflected on preoperative FDG-PET images, the pathological features, and cancer recurrence in 124 patients with locally advanced ESCC, who were treated with NAC and esophagectomy.The pre-NAC SUVmax significantly differed for the ypT status and venous invasion (VI). The post-NAC SUVmax (post-SUVmax) significantly differed for the ypT and ypN status, VI, lymphatic invasion (LI), pathological tumor response, down-staging, and recurrence. The decrease in SUVmax before and after NAC (ΔSUVmax) significantly differed for ypT status, LI, VI, pathological tumor response, down-staging, and recurrence. The survivals were significantly stratified according to the optimal cutoffs of SUVmax for predicting recurrence (post- and ΔSUVmax cutoffs: 4.2 and 30, respectively; all p0.0001). Moreover, multivariate analysis showed that the post- and ΔSUVmax were independent predictive factors for recurrence-free survival.The SUVmax on preoperative FDG-PET can predict the degree of aggressiveness of the tumor in locally advanced ESCC treated with NAC.

Predicting the response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) and the prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is challenging. This study evaluated the potential of a preoperative computed tomography (CT) analysis for predicting the pathological response and survival of patients with ESCC who received trimodality therapy. A total of 119 patients with cT3 or T4 ESCC who underwent surgery following NCRT between 2007 and 2019 were assessed. The CT-based parameters were measured with enhanced CT preoperatively, prior to and during treatment. Associations between these parameters and the pathologic response, as well as the prognosis, were examined. Pretreatment maximum CT value (p = 0.009), pretreatment mean CT value (p = 0.022), preoperative whole tumor volume (WTV, p = 0.003), preoperative largest cross section (LCS, p = 0.002), ΔLCS (pretreatment to preoperative, p = 0.004), ΔWTV (pretreatment to preoperative, p = 0.012), and Δmean CT value (pretreatment to preoperative, p = 0.012) of the primary lesion were significantly associated with a good pathological response. A Cox-regression analysis of recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) showed that preoperative LCS was an independent CT-based predictor. RFS and OS were significantly higher at the optimal cut-off value of the preoperative LCS (p = 0.036 and p = 0.016, respectively). CT-based parameters are thus considered to be valuable predictors of the tumor response and survival after trimodality therapy for ESCC.

The degree of metabolic activity in tumor cells can be determined by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET). Associations between FDG uptake by primary tumors of locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) under trimodal therapy and the pathological features of such tumors have not been fully investigated. We evaluated relationships between the maximal standardized uptake (SUVmax) in primary tumors on preoperative PET images and pathological features as well as cancer recurrence in 143 patients with ESCC who underwent neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) followed by surgery. The post-SUVmax significantly differed after NCRT for ypT and ypN status, lymphatic invasion (LI), venous invasion (VI), and recurrence. Furthermore, the %ΔSUVmax (rate of decrease between before and after NCRT) for LI, VI, and recurrence significantly differed. Univariate and multivariate analyses selected post-SUVmax and %ΔSUVmax as independent preoperative predictors of recurrence-free survival [hazard ratio (HR) 1.46; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.24–1.72 and HR 0.97; 95% CI 0.96–0.99, respectively; p

Summary Accurate preoperative evaluation of lymph node (LN) metastasis is important for determining the treatment strategy for superficial esophageal cancer. Blood biomarkers, such as the neutrophil–lymphocyte, platelet–lymphocyte, and lymphocyte–monocyte ratios (NLR, PLR, and LMR, respectively), have clinical applications as predictors of LN metastasis for different cancers. Here, we investigated the use of these ratios as predictors of pathological LN metastasis and prognosis in patients with clinical stage T1N0M0 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Patients (n = 185) with cT1N0M0 ESCC who underwent esophagectomy with R0 resection between April 2003 and August 2021 were enrolled. We investigated the ability of pretreatment NLR, PLR, and LMR to predict pathological LN metastasis. The optimal cutoff values of NLR, PLR, and LMR to predict pathological LN metastasis were 2.1, 122, and 4.8, respectively. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that the primary tumor length, depth of invasion, and NLR were significant predictors of LN metastasis. Furthermore, similar to the 5-year overall survival, the 5-year relapse-free survival was significantly better in the low NLR group than in the high NLR group. The NLR was the most useful predictor of pathological LN metastasis. Patients diagnosed with clinical stage I ESCC and with a high NLR require adequate LN dissection and may be good candidates for preoperative adjuvant therapy.

Background Accurate preoperative evaluation of lymph node (LN) metastasis is important for determining the treatment strategy for superficial esophageal cancer. There have been reports on the clinical significance of blood biomarkers, such as the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and lymphocyte-monocyte ratio (LMR), as predictors of LN metastasis for different cancers. Methods Patients (n = 185) with cT1N0M0 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) who underwent esophagectomy with R0 resection between April 2003 and August 2021 were enrolled. This study investigated the ability of the pretreatment NLR, PLR, and LMR to predict pathological LN metastasis. Results The optimal cut-off NLR, PLR, and LMR values to predict pathological LN metastasis were 2.1, 122, and 4.8, respectively. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that the primary tumor length, depth of invasion, and NLR were significant predictors of LN metastasis. Furthermore, similar to the five-year overall survival, the five-year relapse-free survival was significantly better in the low NLR group than in the high NLR group. Conclusions The NLR was the most useful predictor of pathological LN metastasis, which is difficult to predict by imaging for clinical stage T1N0M0 ESCC. Patients diagnosed with clinical stage I ESCC and with a high NLR require adequate LN dissection and may be good candidates for preoperative adjuvant therapy.

Associations between tumor metabolic and volumetric parameters determined by preoperativeWe evaluated relationships between reductions in maximal standardized uptake value, metabolic tumor volume, and total lesion glycolysis in primary tumors onThe optimal cutoffs of Δ maximal standardized uptake value, Δ metabolic tumor volume, and Δ total lesion glycolysis were defined to statistically yield the largest differences in recurrence-free survival for good and poor positron emission tomography responders to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (cutoffs: 70%, 85%, and 90%, respectively). These cutoff values significantly stratified overall survival (Δ maximal standardized uptake value, P = .004; Δ metabolic tumor volume, P = .001; Δ total lesion glycolysis, P.0001). Univariate analysis showed that Δ maximal standardized uptake value (hazard ratio, 0.50; 95% confidence interval, 0.32-0.79; P = .003), Δ metabolic tumor volume (hazard ratio, 0.50; 95% confidence interval, 0.31-0.81; P = .004), and Δ total lesion glycolysis (hazard ratio, 0.37; 95% confidence interval, 0.23-0.61; P.001) were statistically significant for recurrence-free survival. Furthermore, Δ metabolic tumor volume (hazard ratio, 0.45; 95% confidence interval, 0.27-0.76; P = .003) and Δ total lesion glycolysis (hazard ratio, 0.37; 95% confidence interval, 0.22-0.63; P.001) were independent factors for recurrence-free survival in multivariate analyses that included preoperative and pathological factors.Together with significant pathological prognostic factors, Δ metabolic tumor volume and Δ total lesion glycolysis were valuable for patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who received trimodal therapy. Thus, preoperative

Background An anti-reflux anastomosis “double-flap technique” was recently used to resolve severe reflux esophagitis after intrathoracic esophagogastrostomy performed following proximal gastrectomy and lower esophagectomy, for esophagogastric junction (EGJ) cancer. We describe thoracoscopic reconstruction procedure performed by using the “double-flap” technique, which involves the creation of seromuscular flap under direct vision. This case report aimed to report the usefulness of this intrathoracic anastomosis procedure, as it may be difficult to perform double-flap technique with intraperitoneal manipulation in EGJ cancer cases. Presentation of case A 58-year-old man was diagnosed with Siewert type II EGJ cancer. We performed laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy, lower esophagectomy, and thoracoscopic esophagogastrostomy using the anti-reflux double-flap technique in the prone position. This was achieved after careful dissection in the plane between the muscular and submucosal layers prior to replacing the remnant stomach into the abdominal cavity. The postoperative course was uneventful, with no symptoms of esophageal reflux after 21 months of surgery, even without medications. Discussion This procedure offers the advantage of minimal invasiveness and ensures adequate surgical margins when lower esophageal incisions are required. This minimally invasive procedure achieves anastomosis using the complete hand-sewn method to prevent reflux, under a good surgical field of view for dissection of the lower esophagus and mediastinal lymph nodes. Conclusions This procedure is very useful due to its minimal invasiveness, ease of thoracic procedure, and prevention of reflux in patients with EGJ cancer. To our knowledge, this is the first report of thoracoscopic esophagogastrostomy performed using the double-flap technique for EGJ cancer.

Background/aim Surgical stress significantly decreases serum diamine oxidase (DAO), a marker of intestinal mucosal maturation and integrity. This study aimed to determine the effects of postoperative enteral and total parenteral nutrition (EN and TPN, respectively) in patients with esophageal cancer. Patients and methods This prospective randomized trial compared serum DAO activities, nutritional states, trace elements and complications between patients who underwent esophagectomy and received EN or TPN for seven days thereafter. Results Fifty-one patients were randomized to receive EN or TPN. The rates of change in serum DAO activity from the day before surgery were 0.79, 0.89 and 0.91 on postoperative days (POD) 1, 3 and 7, respectively, in the EN group, and 0.64, 0.76 and 1.06, respectively, in the TPN group, with no significant differences. Furthermore, the rates of changes in indicators of nutritional status, namely total protein, albumin, total cholesterol, trace element concentrations and infectious and non-infectious complications did not significantly differ between the groups. Conclusion EN and/or TPN can be administered for early nutritional management until resumption of oral intake after esophagectomy according to the postoperative status of individual patients with esophageal cancer.

Background/aim The safety and effectiveness of thoracoscopic compared with open esophagectomy remain uncertain. We aimed to clarify the differences between these surgical modalities in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) who underwent neoadjuvant therapy. Patients and methods We reviewed surgical outcomes among 133 patients with locally advanced ESCC who underwent neoadjuvant therapy followed by esophagectomy. We compared the operative outcomes, postoperative complications and survival rates between 65 and 68 patients who were respectively treated by open and thoracoscopic esophagectomy. Results The surgical duration was longer, but blood loss was lower during thoracoscopic, compared with open esophagectomy. The numbers of dissected mediastinal lymph nodes and rates of postoperative complications did not significantly differ between open and thoracoscopic esophagectomy. However, the rates of postoperative pneumonia and recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis were significantly lower and higher, respectively, after thoracoscopic, compared with open esophagectomy. Overall survival did not significantly differ between the groups. Conclusion Thoracoscopic esophagectomy is feasible for patients with locally advanced ESCC who undergo neoadjuvant therapy.

Purpose The present study aimed to evaluate the long-term results of definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for unresectable locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (LA-ESCC). Materials and methods We analyzed eighty patients with unresectable LA-ESCC, who underwent definitive CRT between 2001 and 2014. The 5-year overall survival (OS), cause-specific survival (CSS), and progression-free survival (PFS) rates were calculated, and we investigated the prognostic factors and adverse events. Results The median age was 66 years (range, 41–83 years). Histologically, all patients had squamous cell carcinoma. The most common tumor site was the middle thoracic esophagus in 43 (54%) patients. According to the eighth edition of the Union for International Cancer Control TNM classification, sixty-six patients (83%) had T4 disease, 59 (74%) had regional lymph node (LN) metastases, and 35 (44%) had distant LN metastases beyond the regional LN (M1 LYM) disease. Forty-five (56%) and 35 (44%) patients belong to clinical stages IVA and IVB, respectively. The median follow-up period for survivors was 86 months. The 5-year OS, CSS, and PFS rates were 20.2%, 25.7%, and 18.4%, respectively. On univariate analysis, only the performance status score was significantly associated with better overall survival (p = 0.026). Grade 3 or higher late adverse events were observed in 12 (15%) patients, and these included cardiopulmonary adverse events in 6 (8%) patients. Treatment-related death occurred in 3 (4%) patients. Conclusion We showed the long-term results of definitive CRT for unresectable LA-ESCC. The survivals are still poor and new treatment strategies need to be developed.

Background/aim Intensive trimodal therapy is needed for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The prediction of recurrence is especially required for patients with pathological residual tumors in the resected primary sites and/or lymph nodes [non-pathological complete response (pCR)] who have a high possibility of recurrence after trimodal therapy. We aimed to determine the risk factors for cancer recurrence in ESCC patients diagnosed with non-pCR after trimodal therapy. Patients and methods We evaluated the risk factors for recurrence-free survival (RFS) using the multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis, based on data from 105 ESCC patients diagnosed with non-pCR after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by esophagectomy. Results Univariate analysis revealed that RFS was significantly associated with postoperative complications, pathological T, N, M stage after therapy (ypT, ypN, ypM), tumor differentiation, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), and pathological response of the primary tumor. Subsequent multivariate analysis revealed postoperative complications ypN, tumor differentiation, and LVI as independent variables for RFS. The RFSs significantly differed between patients with and without these risk factors. Conclusion Severe postoperative complications, ypN 2/3, poor tumor differentiation, and LVI were significantly associated with poor RFS. These factors may be used as prognostic factors in patients with non-pCR after trimodal therapy.

The clinical significance of lymph node (LN) status determined by preoperative 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) has not been investigated in patients with locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) followed by surgery (trimodal therapy). This study reviewed 132 consecutive patients with ESCC who had been preoperatively evaluated using FDG-PET before and after NCRT to analyze associations among LN status according to PET findings, pathologic LN metastasis, and prognosis of ESCC after trimodal therapy. Lymph nodes that were PET-positive both before and after NCRT comprised significant predictive markers of pathologic LN metastasis in station-by-station analyses (sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy respectively 41.7%, 95.0%, and 92.7% before, and 12.0%, 99.4%, and 95.6% after NCRT; both p

Highlights • The number of aortoesophageal fistula (AEF) after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is recently increasing due to the spread of TEVAR. • AEF is a rare but fatal disease, and only surgery can save the life of patients with AEF after TEVAR. • The therapeutic strategy for AEF after TEVAR remains controversial. • The three-step surgical approach described herein could be a useful therapeutic option for AEF after TEVAR., Introduction Aortoesophageal fistula (AEF) is a fatal complication results in sudden massive hematemesis. Although thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is an established method of treating aortic aneurysms or aortic dissection, the number of AEF after TEVAR is recently increasing due to the spread of TEVAR. However, the therapeutic strategy for AEF remains controversial. Presentation of case We describe a 71-year-old man with Stanford B aortic dissection and aortic aneurysm rupture treated by TEVAR who developed AEF between the thoracic aorta and upper thoracic esophagus 20 months thereafter. We applied a three-step surgical procedure for this patient comprising resection of the esophagus as the infectious source, removal of an aortic aneurysm with stent-graft and replacement of the aorta, and final reconstruction of the esophagus. Thereafter, the patient resumed oral intake and has remained relapse-free for 24 months without adverse events. Discussion Previous reports have described simultaneous resection of the esophagus and aortic stent-graft via a left thoracotomy followed by a two-step surgical reconstruction of the esophagus. We applied a three-step procedure consisting of resections of the esophagus and aortic stent-graft on separate occasions followed by esophageal reconstruction in this patient. The first procedure in the three-step approach is less stressful than that of the two-step approach. Conclusion The three-step surgical approach to treating AEF after TEVAR resulted in a good outcome for this patient. Thus, this surgical strategy is a useful option for treating AEF after TEVAR.

Although metastatic tumors in lymph nodes (LN) are potentially affected by neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT), the distribution of LN metastases of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) after trimodal therapy has never been sufficiently estimated. We evaluated the distribution of LN metastases, relationships between LN metastases and radiation fields, risk factors for LN metastasis, and the influence of LN metastasis on the survival of 184 patients with ESCC who underwent NCRT followed by esophagectomy. Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy resulted in down-staged LN status in 74 (49.3%) patients. Pathological LN metastases were extensive in 177 LN stations in the cervical, mediastinal, and abdominal fields, and 162 (91.5%) metastases were located inside the radiation fields. Multivariate analysis showed that clinical N stage [N0 vs. 1/2/3: hazard ratio (HR), 2.69; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.22–5.92; p = 0.01] and clinical response of primary tumor (complete vs. noncomplete: HR, 2.93; 95% CI, 1.50–5.69; p = 0.002) were statistically significant for pathological LN metastasis. Recurrence-free and overall survivals were significantly stratified according to the number of pathological LN metastases, associations between clinical and pathological LN metastases, and presence or absence of pathological LN metastases outside radiation field. About 50% of patients who were clinically diagnosed with LN metastasis before treatment were downstaged by NCRT, and their prognoses were relatively good. However, LN metastases were extensive at the cervical, mediastinal, and abdominal areas, even within the radiation field. Thus, systematic and adequate lymphadenectomy is required for ESCC treated by NCRT.

Background MicroRNA (miR)s are promising diagnostic biomarkers of cancer. Recent next generation sequencer (NGS) studies have found that isoforms of micro RNA (isomiR) circulate in the bloodstream similarly to mature micro RNA (miR). We hypothesized that combination of circulating miR and isomiRs detected by NGS are potentially powerful cancer biomarker. The present study aimed to investigate their application in esophageal cancer. Methods Serum samples from patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and age and sex matched healthy control (HC) individuals were investigated for the expression of miR/isomiRs using NGS. Candidate miR/isomiRs which met the criteria in the 1st group (ESCC = 18 and HC = 12) were validated in the 2nd group (ESCC = 30 and HC = 30). A diagnostic panel was generated using miR/isomiRs that were consistently confirmed in the 1st and 2nd groups. Accuracy of the panel was tested then in the 3rd group (ESCC = 18 and HC = 18). Their use was also investigated in 22 paired samples obtained pre- and post-treatment, and in patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAD) and high‐grade dysplasia (HGD). Results Twenty-four miR/isomiRs met the criteria for diagnostic biomarker in the 1st and 2nd group. A multiple regression model selected one mature miR (miR-30a-5p) and two isomiRs (isoform of miR-574-3p and miR-205-5p). The index calculated from the diagnostic panel was significantly higher in ESCC patients than in the HCs (13.3±8.9 vs. 3.1±1.3, p

Background: Esophageal perforation in advanced esophageal cancer requires immediate treatment. However, no clear treatment protocol has been established for this condition. We report a case of advanced esophageal cancer with esophageal perforation treated with esophageal bypass surgery and definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT). Case Report: A 45-year-old woman was diagnosed with locally advanced esophageal cancer with esophageal perforation. Although the patient’s general condition was relatively stable, no improvement was expected through conservative treatment. Esophageal gastric bypass surgery was performed; her symptoms improved postoperatively and oral ingestion became possible. Definitive CRT with 66 Gy radiotherapy and chemotherapy with cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil was administered. A complete clinical response was achieved. The patient is alive and well without recurrence 20 months after treatment. Conclusion: Definitive CRT after esophageal bypass surgery is a potential treatment option for locally advanced esophageal cancer with esophageal perforation to improve treatment response and quality of life.

Background/aim The present study aimed to determine the effects of intervals between neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) and esophagectomy on therapeutic outcomes in patients with locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Patients and methods We analyzed data from 134 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with locally advanced ESCC of the thoracic esophagus and were treated by nCRT followed by esophagectomy between September 2003 and September 2015. We assigned the patients to groups A and B according to whether they underwent esophagectomy ≤8 or >8 weeks after nCRT. Results The two groups were comparable in terms of age, gender, performance status, comorbidities, tumor location, clinical stage, R0 resection rates and pathological responses to nCRT. The incidences of pneumonia and respiratory failure were significantly higher in group B (p=0.03, p=0.009, respectively). Recurrence-free (RFS) and overall (OS) survival rates did not significantly differ between the two groups. However, RFS was significantly poorer among patients with R0 resection (p=0.04) and those of cStages III and IV (p=0.009) in group B. Conclusion Esophagectomy should proceed within eight weeks after nCRT from the viewpoints of respiratory morbidity and impact of RFS on patients with R0 resection.

Background Oral mucositis (OM) is an unpleasant adverse event in patients receiving chemotherapy. A prospective feasibility study showed that elemental diet (ED), an oral supplement that does not require digestion, may prevent OM. Based on this, we established a central review system for oral cavity assessment by dental oncology specialists blinded to background data. We used this system to elucidate the preventive effect of an ED against OM in patients with esophageal cancer receiving docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5-fluorouracil (DCF) therapy. Patients and methods In this phase III, multicenter, parallel-group, controlled trial, patients consuming a normal diet orally were randomly assigned (1 : 1) to receive two cycles of DCF with (group A) or without (group B) an ED (Elental® 160 g/day). We assessed the incidence of grade ≥2 OM evaluated by two reviewers, changes in body weight, prealbumin, C-reactive protein, and DCF completion rate based on ED compliance. Results Of the 117 patients randomly assigned to treatment, four failed to start treatment and were excluded from the primary analysis; thus, groups A and B comprised 55 and 58 patients, respectively. There were no significant differences in background characteristics. Grade ≥2 OM was observed in eight (15%) and 20 (34%) patients in groups A and B, respectively (P = 0.0141). Changes in body weight and prealbumin during the two DCF cycles were significantly higher in group A than B (P = 0.0022 and 0.0203, respectively). During the first cycle, changes in C-reactive protein were significantly lower in group A than B (P = 0.0338). In group A (receiving ED), the DCF completion rate was 100% in patients with 100% ED compliance and 70% in patients failing ED completion (P = 0.0046). Conclusions The study findings demonstrate that an ED can prevent OM in patients with esophageal cancer receiving chemotherapy., Highlights • Patients receiving docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5-fluorouracil (DCF) chemotherapy commonly develop oral mucositis (OM). • An elemental diet (ED) was able to prevent OM in patients with esophageal cancer receiving DCF. • Grade ≥2 OM was observed in 15% of patients receiving the ED versus 34% of those not receiving the ED (P = 0.0141). • Body weight was maintained in the ED group, and hematologic toxicities were lower, compared with the non-ED group. • The DCF completion rate significantly correlated with ED compliance (P = 0.0046).

Background The prognoses of submucosal esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients vary. Patients with favorable prognoses may receive less invasive or nonsurgical interventions, whereas patients with poor prognoses or advanced esophageal cancer may require aggressive treatments. We sought to identify prognostic factors for patients with submucosal esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, focusing on lymph node metastasis and recurrence. Methods We included 137 submucosal esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients who had undergone transthoracic esophagectomy with systematic extended lymph node dissection. Submucosal tumors were classified as SM1, SM2, and SM3 according to the depth of invasion. Prognostic factors were determined by univariable and multivariable analyses. Results Lymph node metastasis was observed in 18.8%, 30.5%, and 50.0% of SM1, SM2, and SM3 cases, respectively. The overall 5-year recurrence rate was 21.9%; the rates for SM1, SM2, and SM3 tumors were 9.4%, 18.6%, and 34.8%, respectively. The SM1 tumors all recurred locoregionally; distant metastasis occurred in SM2 and SM3 cases. The 5-year overall survival rates were 83%, 77%, and 59% for SM1, SM2, and SM3 cases, respectively. On univariable analysis, lymph node metastasis, depth of submucosal invasion (SM3 versus SM1/2), and tumor location (upper thoracic versus mid/lower thoracic) were poor prognostic factors for overall survival. Multivariable Cox regression analyses identified depth of submucosal invasion (hazard ratio 2.51, 95% confidence interval: 1.37 to 4.61) and tumor location (hazard ratio 2.43, 95% confidence interval: 1.18 to 4.63) as preoperative prognostic factors. Conclusions Tumor location (upper thoracic) and infiltration (SM3) are the worse prognostic factors of submucosal esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, but lymph node metastasis is not a predictor of poorer prognosis.

BACKGROUND/AIM Neoadjuvant therapy followed by surgery is the standard treatment for advanced esophageal cancer. This study aimed to evaluated the potential of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography to predict the pathological therapeutic effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. PATIENTS AND METHODS We enrolled 68 patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who underwent 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography before and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, followed by surgery. Retrospective analysis of the pathological therapeutic effects was performed. RESULTS The pathological therapeutic effect of good responders was significantly inversely associated with the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy and with SUVmax reduction (both p

Background An esophagorespiratory fistula (ERF) is a fatal complication for patients with tracheobronchial invasion by esophageal cancer. We report the case of a long-term esophageal cancer survivor treated by esophageal bypass operation for ERF after chemoradiotherapy (CRT). Case report A 44-year-old man was treated with definitive CRT (i.e. 66 Gy radiotherapy, chemotherapy with cisplatin, and 5-fluorouracil) for unresectable locally advanced esophageal cancer with massive invasion of the left main bronchus. Although a complete clinical response was obtained, the patient developed pneumonia due to an ERF. Esophageal bypass operation was performed for symptomatic relief. The patient's symptoms improved and oral ingestion became possible. No recurrence has been seen for 12 years. Conclusion Esophageal bypass surgery can help in relieving symptoms and might be associated with long-term survival for esophageal cancer patients with ERF after good response to CRT. Thus, bypass surgery is a useful option in the treatment for esophageal cancer with ERF.

To determine the preoperative ability of [We retrospectively analyzed 40 consecutive patients diagnosed with cT1N0M0 ESCC between February 2006 and April 2011. All patients were treated by esophagectomy with two- or three-field lymphadenectomy without neoadjuvant therapy. We evaluated the relevance between clinical variables including maximum standardized uptake values (SUVTumors invaded the middle submucosal layer (SM2) and beyond in 21 (52.5 %) patients, and 6 (15 %) had lymph node metastases. The areas under receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for SUVFDG-PET is helpful for diagnosing tumors that can infiltrate SM2 and beyond as well as occult lymph node metastasis of cT1N0M0 ESCC that are valuable indications in deciding therapeutic strategies for superficial ESCC.

Primary malignant melanoma of the esophagus (PMME) is rare but aggressive. PMME accounts for approximately 0. 1% of all malignant esophageal neoplasms occurring worldwide, and is usually diagnosed during the advanced stage. A 67-year-old man underwent an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) at our hospital and confirmed 20 mm of black pigmentation in the lower esophagus in the chest area. Pathological biopsy findings of the black-pigmented epithelial tissue revealed the presence of tumor cells with brown granules, leading to the diagnosis of malignant melanoma. Owing to difficulty in accurately diagnosing the range in this PMME case, we performed thoracoscopic esophagectomy. Pathological organisation test results were pT1a-LPM, INFb, pN0, and pM0, which were diagnosed at pStage I. The lesion expanded extensively, measuring > 10 cm in diameter. The tumor cells, which were centrally located in the black-pigmented area, were observed to have proliferated beyond the surrounding brownish area into the mucosa, but no findings were found in the endoscopic examination. As in this case, because PMME may diffusely spread along the basal layer outside the range of pigmentation, endoscopic diagnosis of the extent of disease spread may be impossible; hence, it is important to keep this phenomenon in mind while performing resection to treat PMME.

The clinical significance of lymph node (LN) status determined by preoperativeThis study reviewed 132 consecutive patients with ESCC who had been preoperatively evaluated using FDG-PET before and after NCRT to analyze associations among LN status according to PET findings, pathologic LN metastasis, and prognosis of ESCC after trimodal therapy.Lymph nodes that were PET-positive both before and after NCRT comprised significant predictive markers of pathologic LN metastasis in station-by-station analyses (sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy respectively 41.7%, 95.0%, and 92.7% before, and 12.0%, 99.4%, and 95.6% after NCRT; both p 0.0001). The numbers of LNs evaluated using PET before and after NCRT were significantly associated with those of pathologic metastatic LNs. Uni- and multivariable analyses selected LN status determined by PET before NCRT as a significant independent predictor of both recurrence-free [LN-negative vs LN-positive: hazard ratio (HR) 1.90; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02-3.23; p = 0.045] and overall survival (HR 2.62; 95% CI 1.29-5.30; p = 0.01).The status of LN determined by preoperative FDG-PET is significantly associated with pathologic LN status and the prognosis of ESCC with trimodal therapy. Thus, FDG-PET is a useful diagnostic tool for preoperative prediction of pathologic LN metastasis and survival among patients with ESCC.

Definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT) with docetaxel (DOC) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is a unique regimen for esophageal cancer. In this prospective phase II study, antitumor effect and safety of CRT using DOC and 5-FU for inoperable locally advanced esophageal cancer were evaluated. DOC 7.5 mg/m2 was infused on days 1, 8, 22, and 29. 5-FU 250 mg/m2 /day was infused continuously on days 1-5, 8-12, 15-19, 22-26, 29-33, 36-40, and 43-45. Radiotherapy was given to 66 Gy in 33 fractions. Eleven patients with thoracic and five with cervical esophageal cancer were eligible. All patients had esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The response rate was 94%, with complete response in five patients (31%) and partial response in 10 (63%). Hematologic toxicity was mild; only one patient (6%) had Grade 1 leukopenia. Nonhematologic Grade 3 or higher adverse events were esophagitis (31%), anorexia (6%), and esophago-bronchial fistula (6%). No treatment-related deaths occurred. The median time to progression was 20 months and overall 3-year and 5-year survival were 44% and 31%, respectively. Definitive CRT using DOC and 5-FU could be performed safely, and it demonstrated a favorable antitumor effect for ESCC. This regimen might be indicated in patients in whom it is desirable to avoid myelosuppression and progression of renal impairment.

This study retrospectively evaluated the long-term results of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) followed by esophagectomy for the patients with resectable, locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Altogether, 49 patients treated from 2008 to 2012 were analyzed. Chemotherapy consisted of 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin. Radiotherapy was performed with a total dose of 40 Gy in 20 fractions for primary tumor, metastatic lymph nodes, and elective nodal area. Subsequently, transthoracic esophagectomy with extensive lymphadenectomy was performed. The median follow-up time for the survivors was 86 (range, 55-111) months. Pathological complete response from NCRT was observed in 17 (35%) patients. The 5-year overall survival and relapse-free survival rates were 56% [95% confidence interval (CI): 43-71%] and 55% (95% CI: 41-69%), respectively. The 5-year locoregional control rate was 84% (95% CI: 74-95%). Multivariate analyses revealed body mass index, N-factor, and %ΔSUVmax as significant factors for overall survival. Recurrences and within-irradiation field failure were observed in 16 (31%) and 4 (8%) patients, respectively. Toxicities of NCRT were generally mild. Postoperative Grade IIIb or worse complications were seen in 14% of patients, including one Grade V case (2%). The 5-year incidence rate of late complications of Grade 3 or worse was 22% (95% CI: 7-36%). The cumulative 5-year incidence rate of metachronous malignancies was 13% (95% CI: 1-26%). NCRT followed by esophagectomy for patients with resectable, locally advanced ESCC showed favorable locoregional control and overall survival, with acceptable postoperative complications. Long-term careful follow-up for late complications and metachronous malignancies is needed.

The evaluation of treatment outcomes and detection of prognostic factors after recurrence are very important for tailoring optimal therapies for individual patients with recurrent esophageal cancer. We reviewed 133 patients in whom esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) recurred after curative surgery, and assessed recurrence patterns, treatment outcomes and prognostic factors. Recurrence in 57 (42.9%), 54 (40.6%) and 22 (16.5%) patients was locoregional, distant and combined, respectively. The median amounts of elapsed time until recurrence and median survival after recurrence for all patients were 9.1 and 8.3 months, respectively. Univariate and multivariate analyses selected time to recurrence (hazard ratio [HR], 0.98; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.97–0.999; p = 0.04), recurrence location (locoregional vs. distant: HR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.03–2.61; p = 0.04), number of organs with recurrence (1 vs. 3: HR, 3.49; 95% CI, 1.23–9.87; p = 0.02) and treatment after recurrence (best supportive care, [BSC] vs. chemotherapy [CT] or radiation therapy [RT]: HR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.15–0.94; p = 0.04; BSC vs. CT and RT: HR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.26–0.94; p = 0.03; BSC vs. surgery: HR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.25–0.88; p = 0.02) as independent factors for survival after recurrence. Seventeen (12.8%) patients who had localized lymph node recurrence and lung oligometastasis and received multidisciplinary therapy after recurrence survived for >3 years thereafter. Despite the poor survival of patients with ESCC and early or distant recurrence or recurrence in ≥3 recurrent organs, appropriate multimodal therapies should be tailored for individual patients with recurrent ESCC.

Background The accurate prediction of a pathologic complete response (ypT0N0M [LYM] 0 ypStage 0) before operation is essential for selecting appropriate strategies for treating esophageal cancer after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Methods We reviewed 130 consecutive patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who were evaluated preoperatively using upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, computed tomography, and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and subsequently underwent esophagectomy. Our aim was to determine the diagnostic abilities of computed tomography, 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography, and endoscopy to predict preoperatively a pathologic complete response of the primary site of the locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and associated lymph nodes to trimodal neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Associations between clinical complete response (ycT0N0M [LYM] 0 ycStage 0) and pathologic complete response were investigated preoperatively. Results Twenty-nine (22.3%) and 43 (33.1%) patients, respectively, achieved clinical complete response and pathologic complete response, which were associated (P = .001). The sensitivity and specificity, as well as the positive and negative predictive values of clinical complete response to define pathologic complete response were 39.5%, 86.2%, 58.6%, and 74.3%, respectively. Univariate and multivariate analyses selected clinical complete response as the sole independent preoperative predictor of pathologic complete response (clinical complete responses versus non–clinical complete responses: odds ratio: 0.26, 95% confidence interval, 0.10–0.65, P = .004). Recurrence-free and overall survival (OS) rates were better in patients with than in those without clinical complete response (5-year recurrence-free and overall survival: 69.0% vs 41.4% and 75.9% vs 45.0%, respectively, both P = .02). Furthermore, clinical complete response was an independent preoperative predictor of recurrence-free survival (clinical complete response versus nonclinical complete response: hazard ratio: 2.20, 95% confidence interval, 1.08–4.45, P = .03). Conclusion Although pathologic complete response was predictable preoperatively to some extent, the accuracy was somewhat low. Considerable caution should be exercised when selecting the watch-and-wait approach with operation as needed and omitting planned operative intervention even for patients who achieve clinical complete response after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy.

Intensive trimodality therapy is needed for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, some patients develop recurrence and die of cancer even after trimodality therapy. We evaluated prognostic factors based on data from 125 patients with ESCC who underwent neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) comprising concurrent chemotherapy and 40 Gy of radiation, followed by curative-intent esophagectomy. Thirty-four (27.2%) patients achieved a pathological complete response (pCR) after NCRT. The 5-year recurrence-free (RFS) and overall survival (OS) rates of all patients were 49.2 and 52.9%, respectively, and were significantly better for patients with pCR than without pCR (p = 0.01 and 0.02, respectively). Univariate and multivariate analyses selected performance status [PS 0 vs. 1: hazard ratio (HR) 2.05; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.30–4.84; p = 0.01] and ypN (0 vs. 1: HR 2.33; 95% CI 1.12–4.84; p = 0.02; 0 vs. 2/3: HR 3.73; 95% CI 1.68–8.28; p = 0.001) as independent covariates for RFS. Furthermore, PS (0 vs. 1; HR 2.94; 95% CI 1.51–5.72; p = 0.002) and ypN (0 vs. 1; HR 2.26; 95% CI 1.09–4.69; p = 0.03; 0 vs. 2/3: HR 3.90; 95% CI 1.79–8.48; p = 0.001) were also independent covariates for OS. Performance status 1 and ypN+ were significantly associated with a poor prognosis after trimodality therapy for ESCC.

Background/aim The TNM staging system for esophageal cancer is designed to predict survival based on pathological stage in patients who have been treated with surgery alone. However, pathological stage can vary considerably after neoadjuvant therapy due to tumor responses. Patients and methods We reviewed 110 patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) who underwent neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) followed by surgery, and investigated the effects of nCRT on TNM stage and its prognostic significance. Results A comparison of pre-treatment clinical and pathological stages (cStage and ypStage, respectively) resulted in 75 (68%) of the patients being down-staged. Good responders (over two-thirds of the primary tumor reduced by nCRT) comprised 100%, 83%, 69%, 52% and 50% of patients with ypStages 0, I, II, III and IV, respectively (p=0.001). In addition, 62 (83%) and 20 (57%) of patients with and without down-staged tumors, respectively, were pathological good responders (p=0.004). We found that cStage did not significantly correlate with survival, whereas univariate analysis significantly associated ypStages III/IV (p=0.003) and down-staged tumors (p=0.04) with overall survival (OS). Multivariate analysis selected ypStage III/IV (HR=3.26; 95% CI=1.52-6.99; p=0.002) and no down-staging (HR=2.06; 95%CI=1.16-3.64, p=0.01) as independent covariates for OS. Conclusion nCRT could lead to down-staged ESCC tumors for many patients and a good prognosis. The correlation between ypStage and pathological response to nCRT indicated that ypStage could stratify survival and serve as a prognostic predictor after trimodal therapy.

Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) followed by esophagectomy confers a survival benefit on patients with esophageal cancer. However, nCRT might be less meaningful for poor responders. Thus, being able to predict responses would help ensure the selection of optimal therapy. We reviewed data from 123 patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) who underwent nCRT that comprised concurrent radiation (40 Gy) and chemotherapy followed by esophagectomy. We assessed associations between clinical and blood data obtained before starting nCRT and the pathologic response. We compared good (Japan Esophageal Society response evaluation criteria grades 3/2; n = 89, 72.4 %) and poor (grades 1/0; n = 34, 27.6 %) responders. Performance status (p = 0.02), hemoglobin level (p = 0.005), and platelet counts (p = 0.03) were statistically significant pretherapeutic factors for a response to nCRT. Multivariable analysis subsequently selected the hemoglobin level (odds ratio 1.52; 95 % confidence interval 1.08–2.15; p = 0.02) as the sole independent predictor. Receiver operating characteristic curves showed that the optimal cutoff for pretherapeutic hemoglobin was 13 g/dl for predicting a response. We found that 48.8 and 17.1 % of patients with hemoglobin level ≤13 and >13 g/dl, respectively, were poor responders (p = 0.0002), with 5-year overall survival rates of 40.9 and 58.9 %, respectively (p = 0.048). Pretherapeutic hemoglobin levels can influence responses and survival after nCRT for ESCC. Thus, hemoglobin levels can serve as a useful marker for tailoring optimal therapies for individual patients with advanced ESCC.