Cancer occurs when cells in an area of the body grow abnormally. The endometrium is the lining layer of the uterine cavity where most uterine cancers begin because of cancerous changes in the lining. In the most common type of uterine cancer, endometrial cancer, cells in the endometrial lining grow out of control, may invade the muscle of the uterus and sometimes spreads outside of the uterus (ovaries, lymph nodes, abdomen).
Uterine sarcomas are a type of uterine cancer in which malignant cells form in the muscle of the uterus (leiomyoscarcoma) or in the network of support cells in the uterine lining (stromal sarcomas and carcinosarcomas). Only about 5% of uterine cancers are uterine sarcomas, but they tend to have more aggressive clinical behavior and can spread quickly.
Risk factors for endometrial cancer include use of estrogen without progesterone, diabetes, hypertension, tamoxifen use and later age of menopause (after age 52). About 75% of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer have already gone through menopause.
The most common warning sign for uterine cancer, including endometrial cancer, is abnormal vaginal bleeding. Recognition of this symptom often affords an opportunity for early diagnosis and treatment. In older women, any bleeding after menopause may be a symptom of endometrial cancer.
When a woman experiences concerning symptoms, a pelvic exam, including a recto-vaginal exam, and a general physical should be performed. If the exam is abnormal, the woman should undergo an endometrial biopsy, ultrasound and / or and a D&C (dilation and curettage).
Working with Your Treatment Team
During your treatment, you will come in contact with many healthcare professionals. These people make up your treatment team. They will work with each other and with you to provide the special care you need. Your treatment team may include some of the healthcare professionals listed below.
