<prompt> Esophageal carcinoma what is the most important prognostic indicator?Length of involvementDepth of invasionHistological gradingImmunohistochemistry  <response>: Ans. is b i.e., Depth of invasion Prognostic indicators in esophageal carcinoma: The depth of invasion of the tumor through the wall of esophagus, is the most important prognostic indicator, with considerable independent prognostic significance. Presence or absence of lymph nodal metastases is a significant and independent indicator of prognosis.Other prognostic indicators: Presence or absence of distant metastases Resection margins Serosal or peritoneal involvement T1 subclassification Vascular invasion 