Summary about Disease
Uterine cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the uterus. The uterus is a hollow, pear-shaped organ in the female pelvis where a baby can grow. Uterine cancer can arise in the lining of the uterus (endometrium), which is called endometrial cancer, or in the muscle wall of the uterus (uterine sarcoma). Endometrial cancer is far more common than uterine sarcoma.
Symptoms
Abnormal vaginal bleeding (bleeding between periods, heavier or longer periods, or bleeding after menopause)
Watery, blood-tinged vaginal discharge
Pelvic pain or pressure
Pain during intercourse
Unexplained weight loss
Causes
The exact causes of uterine cancer aren't always clear, but several factors can increase the risk:
Hormone Imbalance: An excess of estrogen without enough progesterone can cause the endometrium to thicken and shed irregularly, increasing the risk of endometrial cancer.
Obesity: Obesity increases estrogen levels in the body.
Age: Uterine cancer is more common in women after menopause.
Family History: Having a family history of uterine, ovarian, or colon cancer may increase the risk.
Never having been pregnant
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Diabetes
Tamoxifen (a breast cancer treatment) use:
Medicine Used
Treatment for uterine cancer depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the woman's overall health. Common treatments include:
Surgery: Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) and removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes (salpingo-oophorectomy) are usually the primary treatment.
Radiation therapy: May be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells, or as primary treatment if surgery isn't an option.
Chemotherapy: Used to kill cancer cells throughout the body, especially if the cancer has spread.
Hormone therapy: May be used for certain types of endometrial cancer that are sensitive to hormones.
Targeted therapy: Uses drugs that target specific vulnerabilities in cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: Helps your body's immune system fight the cancer.
Is Communicable
Uterine cancer is not communicable or contagious. It cannot be spread from one person to another.
Precautions
While there's no guaranteed way to prevent uterine cancer, the following may help reduce your risk:
Maintain a healthy weight.
Talk to your doctor about hormone therapy if you're taking estrogen after menopause.
If you have irregular periods, talk to your doctor about ways to regulate them.
Consider genetic testing if you have a strong family history of uterine, ovarian, or colon cancer.
Healthy Diet and exercise.
How long does an outbreak last?
Uterine cancer is not an "outbreak" like an infectious disease. It is a chronic disease process. Without treatment, uterine cancer will continue to progress. The length of time someone lives with uterine cancer depends on the stage at diagnosis, the type of cancer, the treatment received, and the individual's overall health.
How is it diagnosed?
Pelvic Exam: Physical examination of the uterus, vagina, ovaries, and rectum.
Transvaginal Ultrasound: An ultrasound probe is inserted into the vagina to create images of the uterus.
Endometrial Biopsy: A small sample of the endometrium is taken and examined under a microscope.
Hysteroscopy: A thin, lighted tube is inserted into the uterus to allow the doctor to view the uterine lining.
Dilation and Curettage (D&C): Tissue is scraped from the lining of the uterus and examined.
CA-125 assay: Blood test to detect elevated levels of CA-125 that may indicate uterine cancer.
CT scan, MRI, or PET scan: Used to determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies greatly depending on the individual and the stage of the cancer. In early stages, there may be no symptoms at all, or only mild abnormal bleeding. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may become more severe and frequent. There is no single predictable timeline. Some women may experience subtle symptoms for months, while others develop more noticeable symptoms over a shorter period.
Important Considerations
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
Uterine cancer can affect a woman's fertility. Discuss fertility preservation options with your doctor before starting treatment.
Treatment can have side effects. Talk to your doctor about ways to manage side effects.
Support groups and counseling can provide emotional support during treatment.
Follow-up care is important to monitor for recurrence.