DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically confirmed epidermoid carcinoma or adenocarcinoma of the esophagus eligible for potentially curative radiotherapy Disease in one of the following categories: Newly diagnosed Locoregional failure after prior resection with curative intent Positive microscopic margin after palliative resection of all gross disease Disease clinically limited to esophagus T 1-4, any N, M0 Gastroesophageal junction tumor allowed No positive pleural, pericardial, or peritoneal cytology No tracheobronchial invasion on bronchoscopy, including tracheoesophageal fistula