Comprehensive Diagnostic & Therapeutic Reference Profile
Also known as: Uterine Cancer, Cancer of the Endometrium, Corpus Uteri Carcinoma.
Endometrial cancer is a malignancy arising from the lining (endometrium) of the uterus. It is the most common gynecologic malignancy in developed countries. It generally follows a Type I (estrogen-dependent, endometrioid) or Type II (estrogen-independent, non-endometrioid) clinical pattern, typically presenting with postmenopausal bleeding.
Etiology involves prolonged exposure to unopposed estrogen, which stimulates endometrial proliferation. Genetic factors include Lynch syndrome (HNPCC) and Cowden syndrome. Lifestyle factors such as obesity and sedentary behavior contribute via peripheral conversion of androgens to estrogens in adipose tissue.
Pathophysiology involves hyperplastic changes in the endometrium progressing to atypical hyperplasia and subsequently invasive adenocarcinoma. Key molecular pathways include PTEN mutation (Type I) and p53 mutations (Type II). Invasion into the myometrium occurs as the tumor progresses, with potential lymphatic or hematogenous spread.
Endometrial cancer primarily affects postmenopausal women (median age 60). In the US, it is the fourth most common cancer in women. Incidence is rising due to increased prevalence of obesity.
Obesity, nulliparity, early menarche/late menopause, Tamoxifen use, estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy (HRT), Lynch syndrome, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
A. Early Symptoms
Bimanual examination may reveal uterine enlargement or fixity. Speculum examination may show active bleeding from the cervical os. Advanced cases may show palpable pelvic masses or lymphadenopathy.
A. Clinical Assessment: History of bleeding.
B. Laboratory Testing: CBC (anemia).
C. Imaging Studies: Transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS).
D. Functional Tests: Not applicable.
E. Biopsy Findings: Endometrial biopsy or D&C (Gold Standard).
F. Genetic Testing: Microsatellite instability (MSI) testing for Lynch syndrome.
G. Differential Diagnosis: Cervical cancer, endometrial polyps, atrophic vaginitis.
CA-125
Type: Blood Test
Purpose: Monitor disease burden in advanced stages.
Expected Findings: Elevated levels.
Interpretation: Indicates disease progression or recurrence.
Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS): Assessment of endometrial thickness; >4-5mm in postmenopausal women warrants biopsy.
MRI Pelvis: Best for evaluating depth of myometrial invasion.
CT/PET: Used for staging and identifying extra-uterine spread.
Endometrial hyperplasia, leiomyoma (fibroids), cervical carcinoma, estrogen-secreting ovarian tumors.
Lymphedema, bowel obstruction, fistulae, surgical site infection, and psychosocial impact of infertility.
A. Lifestyle Modifications: Weight reduction.
B. Preventive Measures: Progestin supplementation in estrogen therapy.
C. Medical Treatment: Progestins (megestrol), chemotherapy (Carboplatin, Paclitaxel).
D. Surgical Treatment: Total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (THBSO), lymph node dissection.
E. Interventional Procedures: Radiation therapy (brachytherapy or external beam).
F. Rehabilitation: Pelvic floor physical therapy.
G. Emergency Management: Uterine artery embolization for intractable hemorrhage.
Generally favorable for early-stage disease with 5-year survival rates exceeding 80-90% for Stage I, but lower for high-grade or advanced disease.
Maintenance of healthy BMI and appropriate monitoring for women on Tamoxifen or HRT.
The following homeopathic remedies have been historically indicated for symptoms associated with Endometrial Cancer. Selection should be based on individualized symptom totality and constitutional assessment.
This clinical reference profile is compiled from authoritative medical sources for educational purposes. Always verify clinical data with current medical guidelines.
Upload your laboratory bloodwork PDF or paste your report text to automatically extract markers, detect units, and identify reference range variances related to Endometrial Cancer.
Upload your laboratory bloodwork PDF or paste your report text to automatically extract markers, detect units, identify reference range variances, and generate a plain-English explanation of your disease risks.
Browse our full library of 200+ medical and pathology calculators.
📊 Browse All CalculatorsSpeak with our specialists for a customized treatment protocol for this condition.
📅 Request ConsultationThis clinical reference is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed healthcare practitioner.