Description Uterine cancer is t...
Description
Uterine cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the uterus. These abnormal cells ultimately grow and produce a tumor. There are two types of uterine cancer. The first type involves the lining of the uterus (endometrial carcinoma) and the second type involves the musculature wall of the uterus (uterine sarcoma). Uterine cancer is the most common cancer of the female reproductive system and endometrial carcinoma is the most common cause of uterine cancer. The cancer occurs most commonly in middle-aged to elderly women.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually include lower abdominal pain, pelvic cramping and abnormal vaginal bleeding. Abnormal bleeding can be periods that are heavier than normal, spotting, bleeding after intercourse and bleeding during menopause.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A complete gynecologic exam will be performed. Your doctor may perform an endometrial biopsy which involves removal and examination of tissue inside the uterus. If the diagnosis is still in doubt, your doctor may recommend a dilation and curettage (D & C). This procedure involves opening the cervix (opening of the uterus) and scraping the lining of the uterus to obtain tissue for analysis. An ultrasound can also be used to help make the diagnosis. Finally, lab tests and CT scans may be ordered if there is evidence that the cancer has spread.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Ultrasound
Other Specific Tests: Endometrial biopsy (uterine wall lining)
Specialists:
Obstetrics and Gynecology, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Gynecologic Oncology, Gynecology Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A complete gynecologic exam will be performed. Your doctor may perform an endometrial biopsy which involves removal and examination of tissue inside the uterus. If the diagnosis is still in doubt, your doctor may recommend a dilation and curettage (D & C). This procedure involves opening the cervix (opening of the uterus) and scraping the lining of the uterus to obtain tissue for analysis. An ultrasound can also be used to help make the diagnosis. Finally, lab tests and CT scans may be ordered if there is evidence that the cancer has spread.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Ultrasound
Other Specific Tests: Endometrial biopsy (uterine wall lining)
Specialists:
Obstetrics and Gynecology, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Gynecologic Oncology, Gynecology Surgery
Treatment
Treatment is determined by the size and location of the cancer. A combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be used. In some cases, hormone therapy, usually a progestin such as progesterone is used.