Endometrial Cancer

The cancer of the lining of the uterus is called endometrial cancer, which is the most common gynecologic cancer. However, cancer could also originate from other parts of the uterus including cervix and muscles. Some women are at increased risk for endometrial cancer for example: women with history of irregular bleeding, obesity, use of tamoxifene or estrogen for long time. The most common symptom of endometrial cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. There are no screening tests to detect endometrial cancer in women with no symptoms. But most women who have endometrial cancer have early symptoms. Several methods may be used to detect whether endometrial cancer is present: endometrial biopsy, pelvic ultrasound, sonohysterography, hysteroscopy, and D&C. Treatment usually include surgery to determine the stage of disease. During this procedure uterus and most likely other pelvic organs are removed or sampled. Additional therapies like chemotherapy or hormone therapy may be necessary depending on the extent of the disease. Endometrial cancer is one of most treatable forms of cancers with usually good outcome. The key is to diagnose and treat it as quickly as possible. The cause of any abnormal bleeding or discharge, especially after menopause, should be checked by your doctor immediately.