Treatment-related esophageal stricture in pediatric patients with cancer

Background. Intensive antineoplastic regimens have enhanced long-term survival in pediatric patients with cancer, but can result in long-term complications. Esophageal stricture formation is one such complication. Methods. We reviewed the experience with benign esophageal stricture in pediatric patients with cancer over the past 15 years in a major cancer center. Clinical course, along with endoscopic, radiologic, and manometric esophageal studies, was reviewed. Results. Esophageal strictures formed in five pediatric patients who were treated with radiation and/or chemotherapy. Stricture formation was associated with abnormal esophageal motility in four out of the five patients. Repeated esophageal dilation was performed from 3-50 times and resulted in stricture resolution in only 2 of the 5 patients. Conclusions. Esophageal stricture formation in this population is rare, but is associated with long-term morbidity.