Symptoms
The most common types of treatment for women with endometrial cancer are: Surgery for Endometrial Cancer. Radiation Therapy for Endometrial Cancer. Chemotherapy for Endometrial Cancer. Hormone Therapy for Endometrial Cancer. Targeted Therapy for Endometrial Cancer. Immunotherapy for Endometrial Cancer.
Causes
Endometrial cancer is most likely to come back within the first few years after treatment, so an important part of your treatment plan is a specific schedule of follow-up visits after treatment is finished. How often you need to be seen depends mostly on what stage your cancer was.
Prevention
Endometrial cancer can recur (come back) after it has been treated. The cancer may come back in the uterus, the pelvis, in lymph nodes in the abdomen, or in other parts of the body. There are different types of treatment for patients with endometrial cancer.
Complications
An endometrial biospy or a D&C should be done every 3 to 6 months. If there's still no cancer after 6 months, the woman can try to become pregnant. She will continue to be checked for cancer every 6 months. Because the cancer often comes back again, doctors recommend TH/BSO after childbearing is complete.
What is the best treatment for endometrial cancer?
How often should I see a doctor after endometrial cancer treatment?
Can endometrial cancer come back?
How often should I have an endometrial biospy done?
Is chemo required for stage 1 endometrial cancer?
Chemo is not used to treat stage I and II endometrial cancers. In most cases, a combination of chemo drugs is used.
How fast growing is endometrial cancer?
The most common type of endometrial cancer (type 1) grows slowly. It most often is found only inside the uterus. Type 2 is less common. It grows more rapidly and tends to spread to other parts of the body.
What happens if you don't treat endometrial cancer?
If left untreated, endometrial cancer can spread to the bladder or rectum, or it can spread to the vagina, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and more distant organs. Fortunately, endometrial cancer grows slowly and, with regular checkups, is usually found before spreading very far.
How long after a hysterectomy do they start chemo?
This treatment usually involves a combination of several chemotherapy drugs (called regimens). Following surgery, it is usually started within four to six weeks postoperatively and precedes radiation therapy (RT), if this too has been recommended.
How can you tell if endometrial cancer has spread?
In general, uterine cancer can metastasize to the rectum or bladder. Other areas where it may spread include the vagina, ovaries and fallopian tubes....Other symptoms include:Frequent or painful urination.Pain during sexual intercourse.Unexpected weight loss.Persistent cramping in the pelvic area.Anemia.
Is endometrial cancer aggressive?
Grades 1 and 2 endometrioid cancers are type 1 endometrial cancers. Type 1 cancers are usually not very aggressive and they don't spread to other tissues quickly. Type 1 endometrial cancers are thought to be caused by too much estrogen.
Is endometrial cancer a death sentence?
While endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic cancer, it is typically the most treatable: The five-year survival rate is nearly 82%.
Will a hysterectomy cure endometrial cancer?
Surgery is often the main treatment for endometrial cancer and consists of a hysterectomy, often along with a salpingo-oophorectomy, and removal of lymph nodes. In some cases, pelvic washings are done, the omentum is removed, and/or peritoneal biopsies are done.
What were your first signs of endometrial cancer?
The most likely symptoms are:Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, which occurs in nine out of 10 women with endometrial cancer. ... Vaginal discharge that may range from pink and watery to thick, brown, and foul smelling.Difficult or painful urination.An enlarged uterus, detectable during a pelvic exam.More items...
When do you start chemo after diagnosis?
Cancer treatment should start very soon after diagnosis, but for most cancers, it won't hurt to wait a few weeks to begin treatment. This gives the person with cancer time to talk about all their treatment options with the cancer care team, family, and friends, and then decide what's best for them.
Is radiotherapy necessary after hysterectomy?
Delaying radiation therapy after hysterectomy ups risk of uterine cancer recurrence, researchers find. Summary: Waiting too long after a hysterectomy to begin radiation therapy may increase the risk of uterine cancer recurrence, according to researchers.
Should I get radiation after hysterectomy?
Radiation is most often used after surgery to treat endometrial cancer. It can kill any cancer cells that may still be in the treated area. If your treatment plan includes radiation after surgery, you will be given time to heal before starting radiation. Often, at least 4 to 6 weeks are needed.
What is the treatment for endometrial cancer?
Drug treatments for endometrial cancer include chemotherapy with powerful drugs and hormone therapy to block hormones that cancer cells rely on. Other options might be targeted therapy with drugs that attack specific weaknesses in the cancer cells and immunotherapy to help your immune system fight cancer.
What is the procedure to diagnose endometrial cancer?
Hysteroscopy. During hysteroscopy, your doctor uses a thin, lighted instrument (hysteroscope) to view the inside of your uterus. Tests and procedures used to diagnose endometrial cancer include: Examining the pelvis. During a pelvic exam, your doctor carefully inspects the outer portion of your genitals (vulva), ...
What kind of doctor treats endometrial cancer?
If endometrial cancer is found, you'll likely be referred to a doctor who specializes in treating cancers involving the female reproductive system (gynecologic oncologist).
How to get a sample of cells from inside the uterus?
To get a sample of cells from inside your uterus, you'll likely undergo an endometrial biopsy. This involves removing tissue from your uterine lining for laboratory analysis. Endometrial biopsy may be done in your doctor's office and usually doesn't require anesthesia. Performing surgery to remove tissue for testing.
What is hormone therapy?
Hormone therapy involves taking medications to lower the hormone levels in the body. In response, cancer cells that rely on hormones to help them grow might die. Hormone therapy may be an option if you have advanced endometrial cancer that has spread beyond the uterus.
What is the best way to kill cancer cells?
Radiation therapy uses powerful energy beams, such as X-rays and protons, to kill cancer cells. In some instances, your doctor may recommend radiation to reduce your risk of a cancer recurrence after surgery. In certain situations, radiation therapy may also be recommended before surgery, to shrink a tumor and make it easier to remove.
What tests are used to determine the stage of cancer?
Tests used to determine your cancer's stage may include a chest X-ray, a computerized tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) scan and blood tests. The final determination of your cancer's stage may not be made until after you undergo surgery to treat your cancer.
Who treats endometrial cancer?
Depending on the type and stage of the endometrial cancer, you may need more than one type of treatment. Doctors on your cancer treatment team may include:
What kind of doctor treats endometrial cancer?
Depending on the type and stage of the endometrial cancer, you may need more than one type of treatment. Doctors on your cancer treatment team may include: 1 A gynecologist: a doctor who specializes in diseases of the female reproductive tract 2 A gynecologic oncologist: a doctor who specializes in treating cancers of the female reproductive system (including surgery and chemotherapy) 3 A radiation oncologist: a doctor who uses radiation to treat cancer 4 A medical oncologist: a doctor who uses chemotherapy and other medicines to treat cancer
Why do we do clinical trials?
Clinical trials are carefully controlled research studies that are done to get a closer look at promising new treatments or procedures . Clinical trials are one way to get state-of-the art cancer treatment. In some cases they may be the only way to get access to newer treatments. They are also the best way for doctors to learn better methods to treat cancer. Still, they're not right for everyone.
Why is it important to communicate with your cancer care team?
Communicating with your cancer care team is important so you understand your diagnosis, what treatment is recommended, and ways to maintain or improve your quality of life.
What is the best treatment for breast cancer?
Surgery is the main treatment for most women with this cancer. But in some cases, a more than 1 kind of treatment may be used. The choice of treatment depends largely on the type of cancer and stage of the disease when it's found. Other factors could play a part in choosing the best treatment plan.
What do people with cancer need?
People with cancer need support and information, no matter what stage of illness they may be in. Knowing all of your options and finding the resources you need will help you make informed decisions about your care.
What are the services offered by the American Cancer Society?
These might include nursing or social work services, financial aid, nutritional advice, rehab, or spiritual help. The American Cancer Society also has programs and services – including rides to treatment, lodging, and more – to help you get through treatment.
What is the best treatment for uterine cancer?
In general, surgery is the main form of treatment for uterine cancer. However, in some cases, the best approach may involve a combination of: Surgery. Chemotherapy. Radiation therapy. Hormone therapy. Additionally, you may want to consider participating in a clinical trial.
What are some examples of uterine cancer?
Some examples include nutritional supplements, special diets, acupuncture and massage therapy. Be sure to talk with your treatment team before trying any of these methods so that you will fully understand what is known – and unknown – about their respective roles in uterine cancer treatment.
Can you get uterine cancer right away?
If you were recently diagnosed with uterine cancer, you may want to get started with treatment right away, so that you can get it over with and get on with your life. However, it’s important that you first take a step back and think carefully about your choices. Your oncologist can explain all of your uterine cancer treatment options ...
How long does it take for endometrial cancer to come back?
Endometrial cancer is most likely to come back within the first few years after treatment, so an important part of your treatment plan is a specific schedule of follow-up visits after treatment ends. How often you need to be seen depends mostly on what stage and grade the cancer was.
Why is it important to tell your doctor about endometrial cancer?
Most endometrial cancer recurrences are found because of symptoms, so it’s very important that you tell your doctor exactly how you're feeling.
What blood test is done for endometrial cancer?
If symptoms or the physical exam suggests the cancer might have come back, imaging tests (such as CT scans or ultrasounds), a CA 125 blood test, and/or biopsies may be done. Studies of many women with endometrial cancer show that if no symptoms or physical exam changes are present, routine blood tests and imaging tests aren't needed.
What is the doctor doing at the end of a follow up visit?
During each follow-up visit, the doctor will do a pelvic exam (using a speculum) and check for any enlarged lymph nodes in the groin area. A Pap test may also be done to look for cancer cells in the upper part of the vagina, near the area where the uterus used to be.
What to do if cancer comes back?
Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or some combination of these might be options.
How long does cancer treatment last?
Almost any cancer treatment can have side effects. Some may last for a few weeks to months, but others can last the rest of your life. This is the time for you to talk to your cancer care team about any changes or problems you notice and any questions or concerns you have.
Can you get other cancers after endometrial cancer?
People who’ve had endometrial cancer can still get other cancers. In fact, endometrial cancer survivors are at risk for getting certain other types of cancer. Learn more in Second Cancers After Endometrial Cancer.
How does the doctor know I have endometrial cancer?
Endometrial cancer may be found after a woman goes to a doctor because she has symptoms such as new bleeding, spotting, or other discharge from the vagina; pain and/or lump in her lower belly; or weight loss. The doctor will ask you questions about your health and do a physical and a pelvic exam.
What is endometrial cancer?
Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lining of the uterus, called endometrium. It happens when cells in the endometrium grow out of control and crowd out normal cells.
What will happen after treatment?
You’ll be glad when treatment is over. But for years after treatment ends, you will see your cancer doctor. Be sure to go to all of these follow-up visits.
How to tell if you have cancer?
Endometrial biopsy: In this test, the doctor takes out a small piece of the endometrium to check it for cancer cells. A very thin tube is put through your vagina into your uterus. Then a small piece of the endometrium is sucked out through the tube. A biopsy is the only way to tell for sure if you have cancer.
What test is used to detect endometrial cancer?
If signs are pointing to endometrial cancer, more tests will be done. Here are some of the tests you may need: Transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS): For this test, a small wand is put into your vagina. It gives off sound waves and picks up the echoes as they bounce off tissues.
What is the stage of cancer?
The stage describes the growth or spread of the cancer through the endometrium and the uterus. It also tells if the cancer has spread to other parts of your body that are close by or farther away. Your cancer can be stage 1, 2, 3, or 4. The lower the number, the less the cancer has spread.
What is the treatment for menopause?
Hormone therapy: This type of treatment uses hormones or hormone-blocking drugs to fight cancer. It’s not the same as the hormone therapy given to treat the symptoms of menopause. There are many types of hormone drugs. Ask your doctor to tell you about any drugs you are given.
What are the risks of endometrial cancer?
Risk factors for endometrial cancer include the following: Taking estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after menopause. Taking tamoxifen to prevent or treat breast cancer. Obesity.
How is endometrial biopsy done?
Endometrial biopsy: The removal of tissue from the endometrium (inner lining of the uterus) by inserting a thin, flexible tube through the cervix and into the uterus. The tube is used to gently scrape a small amount of tissue from the endometrium and then remove the tissue samples.
What is the name of the cancer that forms in the lining of the uterus?
Endometrial cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the endometrium. The endometrium is the lining of the uterus, a hollow, muscular organ in a woman’s pelvis. The uterus is where a fetus grows. In most nonpregnant women, the uterus is about 3 inches long. The lower, narrow end of the uterus is the ...
What is the procedure to remove tissue from the inner lining of the uterus?
A pathologist views the tissue under a microscope to look for cancer cells. Dilatation and curettage: A procedure to remove samples of tissue from the inner lining of the uterus. The cervix is dilated and a curette (spoon-shaped instrument) is inserted into the uterus to remove tissue.
Why do cancer tests have to be repeated?
Some tests will be repeated in order to see how well the treatment is working. Decisions about whether to continue, change, or stop treatment may be based on the results of these tests.
Why do we do clinical trials?
Clinical trials are done to find out if new cancer treatments are safe and effective or better than the standard treatment.
Does tamoxifen cause endometrial cancer?
Taking tamoxifen for breast cancer or taking estrogen alone (without progesterone) can increase the risk of endometrial cancer. Signs and symptoms of endometrial cancer include unusual vaginal bleeding or pain in the pelvis. Tests that examine the endometrium are used to diagnose endometrial cancer.
Why do people die from endometrial cancer?
Endometrial cancer is usually diagnosed and treated at an early stage. Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in patients with endometrial cancer because of the related metabolic risk factors.
What are the risk factors for endometrial cancer?
Increasing age is the most important risk factor for most cancers. Other risk factors for endometrial cancer include the following:
What is the most common gynecologic malignancy in the United States?
Related Summaries. Cancer of the endometrium is the most common gynecologic malignancy in the United States and accounts for 7% of all cancers in women. The majority of cases are diagnosed at an early stage and are amenable to treatment with surgery alone. [ 1] . However, patients with pathologic features predictive of a high rate ...
Is PDQ cancer information updated?
The PDQ cancer information summaries are reviewed regularly and updated as new information becomes available. This section describes the latest changes made to this summary as of the date above.
Is menstrual bleeding a sign of endometrial cancer?
As a result, heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding after menopause are often the initial signs of endometrial cancer. This symptom tends to happen early in the disease course, allowing for identification of the disease at an early stage for most women. Enlarge. Anatomy of the female reproductive system.
Is a Pap smear a good screening test for endometrial cancer?
The Pap smear is not a reliable screening procedure for the detection of endometrial cancer, even though a retrospective study found a strong correlation between positive cervical cytology and high-risk endometrial disease (i.e., high-grade tumor and deep myometrial invasion). [ 36] .
What is the treatment for endometrial cancer?
Surgery for Endometrial Cancer. Surgery is often the main treatment for endometrial cancer and consists of a hysterectomy, often along with a salpingo-oophorectomy, and removal of lymph nodes. In some cases, pelvic washings are done, the omentum is removed, and/or peritoneal biopsies are done. If the cancer has spread throughout ...
How long does it take to recover from a radical hysterectomy?
The average hospital stay after an abdominal radical hysterectomy is about 5 to 7 days. Complete recovery can take up to 4 to 6 weeks. A laparoscopic procedure and vaginal hysterectomy usually require a hospital stay of 1 or 2 days and 2 to 3 weeks for recovery.
What is lymph node surgery?
Lymph node surgery. Pelvic and para-aortic lymph node dissection is an operation done to remove lymph nodes from the pelvis and the area next to the aorta. The nodes are tested to see if they contain cancer cells that have spread from the endometrial tumor.
How to remove lymph nodes after hysterectomy?
In women who have had a vaginal hysterectomy, lymph nodes may be removed by laparoscopic surgery. When only a few of the lymph nodes in an area are removed, it’s called lymph node sampling.
Why do lymph nodes get removed?
If so, more lymph nodes are taken out because they likely have cancer cells in them , too. If there are no cancer cells in sentinel nodes, no more nodes are removed. This procedure is usually done at the same time as surgery to remove the uterus (hysterectomy).
What is the procedure to remove the uterus called?
Types of hysterectomy. The main treatment for endometrial cancer is surgery to take out the uterus and cervix. This operation is called a hysterectomy. When the uterus is removed through an incision (cut) in the abdomen (belly), it's called a simple or total abdominal hysterectomy. If the uterus is removed through the vagina, ...
Where is the uterus removed in a uterus surgery?
In this operation, the entire uterus, the tissues next to the uterus (parametrium and uterosacral ligaments), and the upper part of the vagina (next to the cervix) are all removed. This operation is most often done through the abdomen, but it can also be done through the vagina.
Diagnosis
Treatment
Clinical Trials
Coping and Support
Preparing For Your Appointment
- When an endometrial cancer is stage II, it has spread to the connective tissue of the cervix. But it still hasn't grown outside the uterus. One treatment option is to have surgery first, followed by radiation therapy. The surgery includes a radical hysterectomy(the entire uterus, the tissues nex…