Introduction: A specific receptor for interleukin 8, known as C‑X‑C chemokine type‑2 receptor (CXCR‑2), is one of the 7‑transmembrane G‑protein‑coupled receptors. Its involvement in the development of numerous malignancies, including esophageal cancer (EC), has been suggested.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic and prognostic usefulness of serum CXCR‑2 level measurement in patients with EC, in comparison with C‑reactive protein (CRP) levels and classic tumor markers such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC‑Ag).

Patients and methods: The study included 72 individuals: 42 patients with EC and 30 healthy volunteers. Serum CXCR‑2 concentrations were measured by an immunoenzymatic assay. The levels of classic tumor markers were measured using the chemiluminescent method, and CRP levels were measured using the immunoturbidimetric method.

Results: Serum CXCR‑2 concentrations were significantly higher in patients with EC than in the control group, similarly to CEA and CRP levels. Moreover, CXCR‑2 concentrations were significantly higher in patients with poorly differentiated EC (G3) compared with those with G2 tumors. The diagnostic sensitivity and accuracy, as well as the negative predictive value of the serum CXCR‑2 assay were higher than those observed for classic tumor markers and slightly lower than those observed for CRP levels. The highest diagnostic sensitivity was found for the combined analysis of CXCR‑2 and CRP.

Conclusions: Our results suggest the role of CXCR‑2 in the development of EC. Thus, further research is needed to clarify the significance of chemokines and their receptors as potential tumor markers of EC.