Uterine Cancer in Panama
Thanks to our extensive experience and constant updating, we are at the forefront of cervical cancer treatment; applying modern techniques that ensure a better evolution of the patient.
What is cervical cancer?
Uterine cancer or uterine cancer has its origin in the cells that line the cervix of this organ, better known as the uterus or uterine cervix.
In general, these cells undergo several gradual precancerous changes that can occur for a variety of causes, resulting in cancer.
Early Symptoms of Uterine Cancer
First of all, it should be noted that cervical cancer in its early stage does not usually manifest characteristic symptoms. Then, they become present when a true invasive cancer forms, affecting the adjacent tissue.
Once this process has begun, the signs that are presented are:
Uncommon vaginal discharge.
Vaginal bleeding or metrorrhagia.
Discomfort when having sex.
Abnormal periods.
Pelvic pain.
Also, some of these symptoms can be caused by common infections; in which case it is recommended to consult a health professional as soon as possible.
Cervical Cancer Diagnosis Process
During the diagnostic stage of uterine cancer, the gynecologist is the one who usually resorts to a series of tests to confirm a finding.
However, it is important to consult with the oncology specialist if you suspect any suspicion and perform the tests that the doctor indicates. Below is a brief reference of each of them.
Colposcopy
This technique consists of observing the cervix through a low-power microscope; making it possible to identify any anomaly and facilitating the taking of samples from the area.
Pap smear
This test is done in the office, where a curettage of the cervix is done to take samples of the cells. These are sent to the laboratory, where they are analyzed in depth.
Endometrial biopsy
This procedure involves taking a sample of tissue from the lining of the uterus for examination. This technique is usually done in the office, and is achieved with or without anesthesia.
After this test, a rest time of approximately 6 weeks should be adhered to, to ensure healing of the cervix.
Positron emission tomography
This test is done to find out how far the cancer cells spread.
To do this, a slightly radioactive type of sugar is administered intravenously, which accumulates in cancer cells, to make it possible to identify it.
Chest X-ray
This is an X-ray image of this area of the body.
Obviously, it is an examination that is part of a series of related procedures; since more than diagnosing uterine cancer, it serves to determine if it has spread and is affecting the lungs.
MRI
This technology, which shows images of all the soft tissues of the body, is a very useful tool in this type of patient.
It is not only used to detect cancer; It also makes it possible for the health professional to determine which is the ideal procedure according to the case.
Intravenous pyelogram
Also known as intravenous urography, it is an X-ray of the urinary system, which is taken after injecting a special dye into the blood.
With this, it is possible to visualize abnormal areas of the urinary tract, whose origin may be related to the spread of cervical cancer.
Importance of early detection of uterine cancer
Successful treatment of uterine cancer is closely related to early diagnosis of the disease. That is why, in the case of women, it is extremely important to ensure regular visits to the gynecologist.
In fact, this type of cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women in many developing countries.
Therefore, it is vitally important that the gynecologist performs early detection tests regularly, the most decisive being:
Pap test (Pap smear)
HPV test
Stages of Uterine Cancer
Once the presence of cervical cancer is confirmed, it should be investigated how far it has spread or if it is still contained in a specific area. This process is called staging and includes several stages:
Stage I
At this stage, cancer cells have developed on the surface of the cervix, and cancer has not yet spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant sites.
Undoubtedly, because it is the initial stage, it is the best time to perform any procedure and also have better chances of success.
Stage II
At this stage, the cancer has reached beyond the cervix, but without spreading to the pelvis or lower vagina; therefore, there is no spread to nearby lymph nodes.
In these cases, there is talk of a life expectancy that is around 56%.
Stage III
The result of this stage is that there is already a spread to the lower part of the vagina and pelvis, which can affect the ureters and produce a blockage at the level of the urinary tract.
Small spread to nearby lymph nodes is also seen; which causes the life expectancy of these patients to be considerably reduced compared to previous stages.
Stage IV
In this last stage, the spread is greater, since the spread of cancer cells has grown in the bladder, rectum and other distant organs such as lungs, bones and the lymphatic system.
Undoubtedly, this is the most complex phase of the disease and the chances of survival in these cases are very low.
Types of cancer that affect the uterus
To date, cancer studies have revealed the existence of two types of uterine cancer: endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma.
Endometrial cancer
It is characterized by starting in the lining or inner layer of the uterus (endometrium). In particular, it is the most common type of uterine cancer and is usually identified by the gynecologist during regular visits.
Uterine sarcoma
On the other hand, uterine sarcoma is a rare type of cancer (it represents between 3 and 7% of all uterine cancers), but also very malignant, which develops in the muscles of the womb.
Basically, its detection is histological after a hysterectomy or myomectomy. It has its own classification, among which are uterine leiomyosarcoma, endometrial stromal sarcoma and undifferentiated sarcoma.
Nursing care in patients with uterine cancer
Although the care of a patient with uterine cancer can be in charge of family and friends; It is advisable to have the support of a specialist in the nursing area.
Obviously, these professionals are qualified in all areas of care that the cancer patient needs and can cover various responsibilities according to the patient’s demand; Including:
Administer medications as directed by a doctor.
Stabilize symptoms and side effects.
Maintain communication with the medical team.
Coordinate medical appointments.
Collaborate for the good nutrition of the patient.
How to prevent uterine cancer?
First, there are several risk factors you should consider to know your chances of developing uterine cancer. Although the specialist can help you determine them, obesity, smoking, and family history are among them.
On the other hand, there are the formations called precancers; which must be treated in a timely manner to prevent them from evolving and becoming cancer.
Causes of Hypertrophic Uterus
Hypertrophic uterus, also known as an enlarged uterus, can be caused by several medical conditions, including:
- Endometrial hyperplasia.
- Uterine fibroids.
- Hormonal disorders,
- The use of certain medications.
These conditions can lead to abnormal growth of the uterus and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate treatment.
Complications Related to the Hypertrophic Uterus
Infertility
The hypertrophic uterus can cause infertility by making it difficult for the embryo to implant due to its abnormal size.
Abnormal Pregnancy
Irregular growth of the uterus can result in an abnormal pregnancy, with complications that can affect the normal development of the fetus.
Recurrent miscarriages
Hypertrophic uterus is a common cause of recurrent miscarriages, as the enlarged size of the uterus often interferes with pregnancy and leads to complications that lead to miscarriages.
Prevention of Hypertrophic Uterus
Prevention of hypertrophic uterus and other gynecological diseases can be achieved through the following measures:
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Exercise regularly.
- Limit alcohol consumption and do not smoke.
- Attend regular gynecological check-ups to detect any health problems in time and receive the appropriate treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Do you want to know a little more about this topic?
Below, we share with you the most recurrent questions that arise around cervical cancer.
At what stage does uterine cancer become terminal?
The terminal stage of uterine cancer is stage IV. At this point, the spread of cancer cells (metastasis) has invaded the patient’s entire system; so it is really complex to counteract its advance.
Is cervical cancer hereditary?
In particular, genetics in this type of cancer play an important role. In fact, patients who suffer from hereditary colon cancer (associated with Lynch syndrome) have an increased hereditary risk of cervical cancer.
What is the survival rate for patients with uterine cancer?
As soon as cancer is detected and staged, survival time varies from patient to patient depending on how advanced the disease is.
The baseline survival rate for uterine cancer is 5 years, with the following considerations:
- Up to 90% when cancer is detected early.
- About 60% in cases of cancer with spread to other nearby tissues and organs.
- A 20% or less survival rate, when metastasis has already occurred.
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