Gynecologic Cancer Basics

By Elizabeth A. Grosen, M.D.
Melanie K. Snyder, M.D.
Gynecologic Oncologists
Cancer Care Northwest

Every hour, approximately 10 women in the United States will be diagnosed with a cancer of the reproductive organs. All women are at risk- more than 80,000 mothers, grandmothers, wives, sisters and daughters will be diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer this year. These diseases do not have to be fatal. Through education, early detection and prevention, women can safeguard against these life-threatening diseases.

What is Gynecologic Cancer?
Gynecologic cancer is the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells originating in the female reproductive organs including the cervix, ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, vagina and vulva. Some gynecologic cancer is inherited via genetic mutations within families but more frequently these genetic mutations are acquired during life (e.g. through smoking, aging, lifestyle, or outside influences).

Types of Gynecologic Cancers

Uterine Cancer
Uterine (endometrial) cancer is the most common cancer of the female reproductive tract with an estimated 38,300 new cases diagnosed per year in the US. Risk factors include obesity, hypertension, diabetes, inappropriate estrogen use, tamoxifen use and late menopause. Warning signs include any bleeding after menopause or irregular vaginal bleeding before menopause. A physician should promptly evaluate these signs because early detection and proper treatment of uterine cancer can result in a cure.

Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is the most serious of the gynecologic malignancies because it often is detected in advanced stages. Symptoms include changes or discomforts, such as pressure or fullness in the pelvis, abdominal bloating, or changes in bowel and bladder patterns, which are constant and progressive. At the present time no screening test for ovarian cancer exists, but if it is diagnosed, the best outcome is achieved by proper surgical treatment by a specialized cancer surgeon followed by chemotherapy or radiation in certain circumstances.

Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is the only gynecologic cancer that can be prevented by a screening test. Routine Pap smear screening allows the opportunity to treat abnormalities of the cervical cells before they become cancerous. Risk factors for cervical cancer include smoking, a high number of sexual partners, HIV, some HPV (wart virus) infections, and early age of intercourse. If cervical cancer is diagnosed, treatment may include surgery and/or radiation therapy with excellent long-term survival.

Vulvar Cancer
Vulvar cancer risk factors include smoking, advanced age (over 70), and some types of chronic vulvar diseases. Symptoms include persistent itching in the vulvar area. Evaluation can be performed by a special office examination (colposcopy) and a biopsy should be performed if a lesion is detected.

What do I do if I suspect I have a gynecologic cancer?
Speak with your doctor if you suspect or have any symptoms of or risk factors for gynecologic cancer. Often, early diagnosis can result in the successful treatment of disease. Your doctor will refer you to a Gynecologic Oncologist, a doctor specially trained in these types of cancers, if they feel you need treatment or counseling for these gynecologic cancers.

Drs. Grosen and Snyder are Gynecologic Oncologists with Cancer Care Northwest.