ARGON PLASMA COAGULATION FOR SUPERFICIAL SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA AND DYSPLASIA OF THE ESOPHAGUS

Abstract

The efficacy of argon plasma coagulation (APC) for superficial squamous cell carcinoma and dysplasia of the esophagus was investigated. Twenty-nine patients (31 lesions) with primary superficial squamous cell carcinoma and dysplasia of the esophagus were treated by APC. First, the extent of the lesion was confirmed by conventional endoscopy and iodine staining. Second, marking of the edge of the lesion by APC probe and biopsy was performed. Then, APC treatment was performed. Repeated APC was done if recurrence or a residual lesion was confirmed by follow up endoscopy. Twenty-one superficial carcinomas and 10 areas of dysplasia were treated. The average lesion diameter was 17.4 mm (5-40mm) and the average number of APC treatments was 1.3 (1-4). There were no severe complications. The average duration of follow-up was 17.4 months. Although recurrence or residual lesions were found in 5 patients, repeated APC achieved control in all of them. It seems that APC can be used safely to treat superficial squamous cell carcinoma and dysplasia of the esophagus. APC can be repeated multiple times, if necessary. Follow-up is needed after APC, because some cases of recurrence were experienced.