PIK3CA mutation and overexpression are also considered to be the prognostic markers for Chinese ESCC patients.27 In addition, EGFR mutant actives PI3K/AKT signalling pathway via ERBB3 and inhibiting the ERBB3/PI3K/AKT signalling pathway is essential for gefitinib anti‐cancer effect.28 These findings suggested that modulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway might alter the anti‐effect of gefitinib in treating ESCC. Here, EGFR is linked to esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.