A 70-year-old man presents with a 3-month history of progressive difficulty swallowing solids, initially, and now liquids. He reports significant weight loss. Endoscopy reveals a mass in the distal esophagus. Biopsy confirms adenocarcinoma. What is the most appropriate next step in his management?
✓ Correct Answer: Option C
After a confirmed diagnosis of esophageal adenocarcinoma, staging with CT of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis (and often PET scan or endoscopic ultrasound) is essential to determine the extent of disease and guide definitive treatment decisions.