Esophageal Cancer Genetics and Clinical Translation

Comprehensive genomic profiling has advanced our understanding of the molecular basis of esophageal cancer. Marked genomic heterogeneity between individual patients and the 2 major histologic subtypes of esophageal cancer likely contributes to the poor survival and lack of universally effective therapies. Esophageal adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are molecularly and biologically distinct entities, with unique risk factors and geographic distributions that may benefit from individualized treatment strategies. Molecular characterization of tumors enables personalized care by providing prognostic information and identifying those most likely to benefit from targeted therapy and/or immunotherapy.