The PLCE1 rs2274223 genotype was associated with ESCC risk, as revealed by the recessive genetic model (GG vs. AG+ AA: OR = 1.22; 95% CI = 1.03–1.45; P = 0.024, Figure 2) without genetic heterogeneity (Q = 2.976, I2=0, Pheterogeneity = 0.562), dominant model (GG +AG vs. AA: OR = 1.23; 95% CI =1.02-1.49; P =0.032 and Pheterogeneity = 0.022, Figure 3), homozygous model (GG vs. AA: OR =1.37; 95% CI =1.11-1.69; P =0.003), and heterozygous model (GA vs. AA: OR =1.21; 95% CI =1.01-1.46; P =0.049) with substantial heterogeneity. This evidence concerns the gene PLCE1 and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.