What is stage IA1 of cervical cancer?
Stage IA1 cervical cancer is the earliest stage of cervical cancer. It is diagnosed when cancer cells are found only in the top layer of cells of the cervix (the ectocervix). The cancer cells have not invaded the deeper layers of the cervix or spread to other parts of the body.
Stage IA1 cervical cancer is considered to be a very early-stage cancer and is highly curable with treatment.
Symptoms of stage IA1 cervical cancer:
Stage IA1 cervical cancer often does not cause any symptoms. In some cases, women may experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding after intercourse or between periods.
Treatment for stage IA1 cervical cancer:
The treatment for stage IA1 cervical cancer typically involves surgery to remove the cancerous tissue. This may be done with a cone biopsy, which is a procedure in which a cone-shaped piece of tissue is removed from the cervix. In some cases, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be necessary.
Radiation therapy may also be used to treat stage IA1 cervical cancer. This involves using high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to kill cancer cells.
Prognosis for stage IA1 cervical cancer:
The prognosis for stage IA1 cervical cancer is very good. With treatment, most women with stage IA1 cervical cancer are cured.