Optimistic Long-Term Outcomes for Esophageal Cancer Patients with Pathologic Complete Response after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy and Surgery

Patients with locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) who achieved a pathologic complete response (PCR) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy had a favorable prognosis in terms of long-term survival. The 5-year overall survival rate for patients with PCR was significantly higher compared to those without PCR. However, a subset of patients still experienced recurrence, particularly locoregional recurrence. Regular follow-up evaluation is necessary for this group of patients to detect and manage recurrent disease.