Uterine cancer begins when malignant cells being to grow in the uterus. The most common type of uterine cancer begins in the lining, or endometrium, and is also called endometrial cancer. Uterine sarcoma, develops in the muscle or, myometrium, and is a different type of cancer from endometrial cancer.
According to the National Cancer Institute, more than 39,000 women will be diagnosed with uterine cancer in the United States this year.
The most common symptom of uterine cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. Uterine cancer can occur at the onset of menopause, but usually occurs after menopause.
A woman should see her doctor if she has any of the following symptoms:
These symptoms can be caused by cancer or other conditions. Typically these symptoms are not signs of cancer, but in the interest of their best health, women should seek the guidance of an experienced gynecologist. If there is a concern, or a biopsy comes back with possible signs of cancer, you will be referred to a gynecological oncologist.
The Johns Hopkins Kelly Gynecologic Oncology Service is one of the world leaders in oncology care for women with cancer of the female reproductive tract. Our patients have twice the survival rates of patients of those not treated by a cancer specialist, which is why it is so important to be evaluated by an experienced gynecological oncologist at the onset of disease.
When evaluated for uterine cancer, your doctor will take a complete medical and family history, as well as perform a pelvic exam to examine the organs of the female reproductive tract for any changes in size or shape. The following tests may be ordered by your doctor to fully evaluate you for uterine cancer.
If cancer is found in the biopsy, then your doctor will create an individualized treatment plan for you, involving the whole patient and multidisciplinary care. Our team of experienced gynecologic oncologists treats uterine cancer in women with nationally recognized high success rates and outcomes.
Treatment for uterine cancer may include: