Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the uterus. The uterus is the hollow, pear-shaped pelvic organ in women where fetal growth occurs.
Endometrial cancers begins in the layer of cells that line the covering or endometrium of the uterus. Endometrial cancer is also called uterine cancer.
Endometrial cancer is often diagnosed early since it presents as abnormal vaginal bleeding, prompting women to see their doctors.
TYPES
The types of uterine cancer include:
Endometrial Adenocarcinoma. The most common type of uterine cancer starts in the endometrium.
Adenosquamous carcinoma. It contains two types of cells: squamous cells (small, level cells that line certain organs) and gland cells.
Papillary serous carcinoma. An aggressive type of cancer but not common
Uterine sarcoma. Cancer that develops in the muscles of the walls of the uterus or the myometrium
SYMPTOMS
Signs and symptoms of endometrial cancer may include:
DIAGNOSIS
Tests and techniques used to diagnose endometrial cancers include:
Pelvic examination. The doctor carefully examines the outer part of your genitals (vulva), and thereafter inserts two fingers of one hand into your vagina while pressing the other hand on your stomach area to feel your uterus and ovaries.
Ultrasound. Your doctor may recommend a transvaginal ultrasound to look at the thickness and surface of the endometrium and help diagnose conditions.
Hysteroscopy. Your doctor inserts a slender and flexible tube with a camera (hysteroscope) through your vagina and cervix into your uterus
Biopsy. To get some cells from inside your uterus
Dilatation and curettage. In case enough tissue can’t be collected during the biopsy or if the biopsy results are not clear, you’ll likely need dilatation and curettage (D&C).
TREATMENT
Your decisions for treating your endometrial cancer will depend upon the characteristics of your tumor, such as the stage, your general health, and your choices.
Surgery
Surgery to remove the uterus is recommended for most women with endometrial cancer
Radiation
Radiation treatment uses radiation, for instance, x-rays and protons, to kill harmful cancer cells.
Hormone treatment
Hormone treatment involves taking medicines that affect hormone levels in the body.
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