Spontaneous regression of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

Partial or complete spontaneous regression (SR) of cancer is unusual, particularly in patients with oesophageal cancer. This case report describes a patient with biopsy-proven squamous cell carcinoma of the oesophagus which spontaneously regressed without any treatment. Regression of the primary tumour was confirmed on histological examination of the resected specimen. The process of SR remains an enigma, but potential mechanisms are considered.