Subsequent upper aerodigestive malignancies following treatment of esophageal cancer

Abstract
One hundred ninety-eight patients received radiation therapy for carcinoma of the esophagus. Eight patients subsequently developed at least one other epidermoid carcinoma within the upper aerodigestive tract. Analysis by life-table method suggests a steadily increasing risk for second malignancies as survival lengthens. Implications with regard to the treatment and management of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus are discussed and the relevant literature is reviewed.