A Phase II Clinical Study of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate in Patients With Esophageal Squamous Cancer

Efficacy and Safety of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate, an Important Polyphenolic That Originates From Tea, in Patients With Esophageal Squamous Cancer: A Phase II Trial

The investigators conduct this phase II study to evaluate safety and effectiveness of EGCG in patients with dysphagia. Swallowing-related dysphagia and pain scores were recorded using the numerical rating scale (NRS) daily . Barium meal radiography was utilized to measure the luminal size and the length of the lesion area both before and after a week of EGCG treatment. The scales are translated into Chinese and guides in Chinese are developed instructing how to use the scales and perform the assessments.

Inclusion Criteria:

• confirmed pathological esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
• ≥18 years old
• the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG PS) 0-1
• no previous anti-tumor treatment
• no esophageal bleeding or fistula
• adequate hemocyte count, normal hepatic and renal functions
• Esophageal obstruction classified as grade 2 or grade 3 according to Stooler's dysphagia score

Exclusion Criteria:

• lactating or pregnant women
• known hypersensitivity or allergy to any kind green tea extract
• placement of small intestinal feeding tube or endoscopic stent treatment
• unable or refusing to take oral liquids