Uterine Cancer Treatments

There are two types of cancer that can affect the uterus. The first is called endometrial cancer, in which malignant cells grow in the lining of the uterus. The second is a rare form called uterine sarcoma, in which cancer cells grow in the muscles in the uterus. Treatment is based on the severity and location of the cancer.

Surgery

• In patients with endometrial cancer, surgery is the most common method of removal. There are three different options a doctor may employ. The first is a total hysterectomy where the uterus is removed. This may occur through an incision or via the vagina. In a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy the ovaries and the fallopian tubes are taken out. Finally, in a radical hysterectomy, the uterus, cervix and part of the vagina are taken out. If lymph nodes are involved they may be removed as well.

Radiation

• Another method for treating endometrial cancer is radiation therapy. This method uses x-rays and other types of radioactive material to kill cancer cells. This therapy can be done either externally via a machine or internally in which a doctor injects the radiation into the body using needles or seeds or catheters near the site of the cancer. Radiation therapy is used based on the severity of the cancer and is also employed to stop the cancer from spreading to other areas.

Hormone Therapy

• Hormone therapy is used in late-stage endometrial cancer. This treatment adds, blocks and removes hormones from the body to stop cancers from growing. For menopausal women, hormones may be given to help fix low levels. Sometimes synthetic hormones may be used to stop the body from producing hormones that promote malignant growth. Drugs, radiation and surgery all used to block prohibit production of these hormones.

Uterine Sarcoma

• Uterine sarcoma is usually diagnosed and removed in the same procedure. Surgery is usually the only option for this type of cancer. At first, a doctor may perform a laparotomy, where the abdomen is cut open and the doctor checks for disease. Next, fluid is taken from that area and checked for malignant cells. If cancer is found, the uterus is completely removed. If the cancer has spread, the ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix and part of the vagina may be taken out too.

Other Options

• Other options for treating uterine cancer include chemotherapy to prevent the spread, but surgery is usually inevitable. People with endometrial cancer may also choose to take part in clinical trials for treatments being created. Patients can benefit from being the first to receive a new technology, but they are also helping others with cancer in the development of new methods.