The uterus is the largest organ in the reproductive system of a woman and is located in between the bladder and rectum. Cancer in the uterus is known as uterine cancer and it occurs when healthy cells in the uterus grow unusually and form a lump (tumor). It is one of the most common types of cancers affecting women in general. In 2020, approximately 417,367 women were diagnosed with uterine cancer worldwide.
Uterine cancer is categorized into two types:
Most women are diagnosed with endometrial cancer, accounting for over 90% of the cases. It originates in the cells of the endometrium, which is the inner lining of the uterus.
In contrast to endometrial cancer, uterine sarcoma is a less common type that affects the supporting tissues in the uterine glands (myometrium) or muscle wall of the uterus.
The signs and symptoms of uterine cancer are almost the same as cervical cancer. You must consult a uterine cancer doctor if you have the following symptoms:
Generally, surgery is recommended for patients with uterine cancer. Other treatment options include:
It is considered as one of the highly effective treatments for cancer. Strong beams of energy target the cancerous cells in the uterus, without affecting the healthy tissues. Consequently, the affected cells are destroyed.
In this procedure, medications are given, either intravenously or through oral pills, to kill the cancerous cells in the uterus. The goal of this treatment is to either destroy the affected cells or restrict the growth of the tumor.
The specialty of targeted therapy is targeting the exact proteins, genes, or tissues that lead to the growth of cancerous cells. Targeted therapy avoids damaging the healthy cells. However, the targets are not the same in all tumors. Tests are conducted to determine the proteins, genes, and other factors of the tumor to enhance the targeted therapy treatment.
Doctors may conduct hormone therapy to delay the growth of cancerous cells that contain hormone receptors. This treatment helps in reducing uterine cancer symptoms in patients who are unable to undergo radiation therapy or surgery.
Uterine cancer can be diagnosed in various ways. However, the doctor will recommend the most suitable test after considering a few factors like the symptoms of uterine cancer, the type, age, other health conditions, and more.
The different ways to diagnose uterine cancer are:
A small piece of tissue is removed from the uterus lining and examined under a microscope to check for cancer and other abnormalities. A biopsy is one of the most effective diagnostic procedures to ascertain if the patient has uterine cancer.
A doctor conducts a pelvic examination to check the ovaries and uterus for any abnormalities. Additionally, the use of a speculum allows the doctor to assess any irregularity in the vagina and cervix areas.
A clear image of the internal organs is produced with the help of high-quality sound waves. For this procedure, the doctor inserts an ultrasound wand inside the vagina and focuses on the uterus to take distinct images. The doctor may decide to perform a biopsy if the endometrium appears too thick.
A computed tomography (CT Scan) is done to obtain images of the uterus from different angles using x-rays. The images obtained are three-dimensional and not only show abnormalities but also provide the exact size of the tumor, if detected.
A patient can also be prescribed an MRI. This procedure provides highly accurate and clear images of the uterus. Like a CT scan, an MRI can also give information about a tumor’s size.
The specialists for uterine cancer at ACTC in Florida offer outstanding patient care by prescribing personalized and evidence-based treatment plans tailored to individual patients' needs. We aim to foster a positive environment that focuses on physical and mental health throughout a cancer patient's journey.
The following are our providers who you can consult at ACTC:
MD, Hematology & Oncology
MD, Radiation Oncologist
MD, Ph.D., Hematology/ Medical Oncology
MD, Radiation Oncologist
As one of Florida's leading advanced uterine cancer treatment centers, we understand how a cancer diagnosis and treatment impact a person's physical and emotional well-being. Therefore, we work hard to make patients with all forms of cancer and their families feel secure. We provide comprehensive treatment for carcinoid tumors at ACTC, including screening, diagnosis, staging, treatment, and long-term follow-up, all in one convenient location. Our physicians are backed up by qualified clinical staff with over two decades of experience and a reputation for providing individualized treatment.
Schedule a consultation by calling
352-345-4565Yes, as long as the cancer is detected and treated early. Opting for diagnosis at the right time and implementing the appropriate treatment method are imperatives for having a favorable outcome and recovery.
The majority of uterine cancer cases occur after menopause. Obese women are more likely to suffer from it. Taking estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy to deal with the symtoms of menopause for many years also increases the risk.
The signs of uterine cancer include:
An odorous discharge that may be bloody or watery
Vaginal bleeding between periods or before menopause
Abdominal discomfort or pain
Pain when urinating
Pain during sexual intercourse
Schedule a consultation by calling
352-345-4565