Esophageal carcinoma in second-trimester pregnancy in a resource-limited setting: Case report

Abstract

Esophageal carcinoma during pregnancy is an extremely rare condition that presents unique challenges in terms of diagnosis and management. In this case study, we report on a 34-year-old pregnant woman from Somalia/Somaliland who presented with dysphagia and weight loss. She had previously been treated for gastroesophageal reflux disease, but her symptoms worsened over time. Upon examination, the patient exhibited cachexia, palpable cervical nodes, and basal crepitation upon admission. A CT scan of the neck revealed esophageal carcinoma with metastasis, while an ultrasonography confirmed the presence of a 24-week fetus. Due to the limited availability of chemotherapy and cancer treatment facilities, palliative care was initiated, unfortunately resulting in the unfortunate demise of both the patient and the fetus. This case highlights the significant impact of resource scarcity on disease management, as well as the ethical complexities involved in making decisions regarding palliative care for pregnant patients with cancer. It emphasizes the importance of timely diagnosis and the implementation of comprehensive, multidisciplinary approaches in addressing such rare occurrences.