Published online Mar 24, 2022. doi: 10.5306/wjco.v13.i3.159
Peer-review started: April 4, 2021
First decision: June 4, 2021
Revised: June 14, 2021
Accepted: February 15, 2022
Article in press: February 15, 2022
Published online: March 24, 2022
Processing time: 353 Days and 10.4 Hours
The incidence of esophagogastric junction (EGJ) adenocarcinoma is increasing in developed nations due to the rising prevalence of obesity and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Due to the peculiar location in a histological transition zone between the esophagus and the stomach, the management of EGJ tumors is controversial. Two main surgical approaches exist: total gastrectomy with distal esophagectomy or esophagectomy by either transhiatal or transthoracic approach. These operations differ significantly in the extent of lymphadenectomy. In addition, patients with locally advanced disease can receive either preoperative chemoradiation or perioperative chemotherapy. This evidence-based review analyzes current evidence regarding the management of EGJ tumors in order to help defining the best surgical and systemic treatment of these patients.
Core Tip: Management of patients with esophagogastric junction tumors is challenging. Several surgical approaches and systemic therapies are currently available to treat these patients. This evidence-based review will help determining the optimal treatment for this complex disease.