What condition might cause a patient to experience significant weight loss and dysphagia?

• A. Esophageal stricture
• B. Gastritis
• C. Esophageal cancer
• D. Pyloric stenosis

Answer: (C)

Esophageal cancer is a likely cause of significant weight loss and dysphagia due to the nature of how the disease impacts the esophagus. As tumors grow, they can obstruct the esophagus, leading to difficulty swallowing, which is known as dysphagia. This difficulty can discourage patients from eating, leading to substantial weight loss over time.

Esophageal cancer may also progress asymptomatically in its early stages, meaning that patients might not notice trouble until the disease has advanced enough to significantly affect their ability to consume food. The combination of these symptoms—dysphagia and significant weight loss—often prompts further investigation, revealing the underlying malignancy. Early detection and appropriate intervention are critical in managing esophageal cancer and improving outcomes for affected patients.