Hello and thank you for posting.

When the doctors are gathering all the information they need about your cancer they will do several different tests. This link goes through those used to diagnose oesophageal cancer.

Once they have all the test results they will know the stage, type, and grade of cancer, so that they can put together a treatment plan appropriate for you. This information can also help in giving the doctors an idea of your prognosis based on averages, there is more information on how they stage oesophageal cancer here.

Do ask your doctor Amy about the prognosis when you next meet with them, but bear in mind it is based on averages and they may want to see how you get on with treatment first to be more accurate. 

Take care and if you to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline the number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040. The lines are open from 9am till 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Sarah.