Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It usually develops gradually and can often be asymptomatic in the early stages.

Types of Cervical Cancer

There are two main types of cervical cancer:

Squamous cell carcinoma- This is the most common type, accounting for approximately 70-90% of cervical cancer cases. It originates from the squamous cells covering the cervix;

Adenocarcinoma- This type arises from epithelial cells in the cervix and is less common, making up about 10-30% of cases.

There are also some rare types of cervical cancer, including:

• Adenosquamous carcinoma-A mixed type containing both squamous and glandular cells;
• Small cell carcinoma- A sporadic and aggressive form of cervical cancer;
• Neuroendocrine tumors- Rare tumors that arise from neuroendocrine cells in the cervix;
• Rhabdomyosarcoma, cervical lymphoma, and sarcoma-These are extremely rare forms of cervical cancer.

Causes of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Key causes and risk factors include:

• HPV infection - Most cases of cervical cancer are linked to high-risk HPV strains. While many sexually active individuals may contract HPV, certain cases can lead to complications, including cancer.
• Smoking - Women who smoke are more likely to develop cervical cancer, as tobacco byproducts can impact cervical cells and interact with HPV.
• Weakened immune system- Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV, are at higher risk;
• Long-term use of oral contraceptives- Studies suggest that taking oral contraceptives for more than five years may increase the risk of cervical cancer;
• Unprotected sexual activity with multiple partners- Having numerous sexual partners raises the risk of contracting HPV;
• Early sexual activity -Sexual activity at a young age can heighten the risk of HPV infection.
• Genetic factors- Cervical cancer may have a genetic component.

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer                                                                                                      

Early cervical cancer often has no symptoms, highlighting the importance of screening. In asymptomatic patients, cervical cancer may be detected during screening or incidentally, if visible lesions are found during a gynecological exam.

For those with symptoms, the most common include:

• Irregular vaginal bleeding or post-coital bleeding (bleeding after sexual intercourse);
• Pelvic pain;
• Unexplained weight loss;
• Pain during sexual intercourse;
• Watery vaginal discharge;
• Hematuria (blood in urine), hematochezia (blood in stool), or discharge of urine or feces from the vagina (these symptoms are rare and indicate cancer spread to the bladder or rectum).

Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer                                                                   

There are several methods to diagnose cervical cancer:

• Pap test- This cytological screening test examines cervical cells for precancerous changes and cancer;
• HPV test- Identifies the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of cervical cancer. It can be done alongside the Pap test or separately;
• Colposcopy- If abnormalities are found in the Pap test or HPV test, a colposcopy may be performed;
• Biopsy or conization- A sample of cervical tissue is taken for examination;
• If cervical cancer is diagnosed, tests such as MRI, CT, or PET scans may be conducted to determine the extent of the cancer or clinical staging.

Cervical Cancer Treatment                                    

The treatment methods for cervical cancer depend on the stage of cancer and the patient’s overall health and include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Namely, the treatment options are:

• Conization - Removal of a cone-shaped section of the cervix, used for early stages or precancerous changes;
• Hysterectomy- Removal of the uterus and cervix;
• Radical hysterectomy- involves the removal of the uterus, cervix, surrounding tissue, and nearby lymph nodes;
• Radiotherapy-  External radiation therapy aimed at eliminating the tumor from the body;
• Brachytherapy-  involves placing radioactive material inside the cervix;
• Chemotherapy - Uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. Chemotherapy may be used alone or alongside radiation therapy in later stages;
• Targeted therapy - This approach uses drugs to focus on specific genetic markers or molecules;
• Immunotherapy- Utilizes the body’s immune system to fight cancer;
• Clinical trials- Patients may have the option to participate in clinical trials for new treatment approaches.

Regular check-ups and monitoring are essential for preventing recurrences and complications. Cervical cancer screening, combined with HPV vaccination, can significantly reduce the incidence of cervical cancer. Meet the team of experienced and qualified doctors at “New Hospitals”.

To schedule a consultation, contact us at 2 190 190.