What is Clear Cell Carcinoma of the Cervix?
Clear cell cervical cancer is a rare type of cancer and accounts for approximately 4% of all cervical cancers. It usually develops in older women after menopause. Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation or the end of the menstrual cycle at the age of 51. The median age for the development of clear cell carcinoma of the cervix is 53 years. It is more common in females of Asian origin.What is Cervix?
The cervix is the lower part of the uterus; it is cylinder-shaped and connects the uterus with the vagina in the female body.Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause, but a strong association has been found between the development of clear cell cervical cancer and intrauterine exposure to synthetic nonsteroidal estrogen and diethylstilbestrol (DES), that is, it can develop in people whose mothers took diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy.Signs and Symptoms
In the early stages, the patient usually does not have any signs or symptoms. The common signs and symptoms are:- Bleeding from the vagina after sexual intercourse
- Abnormal bleeding from the vagina between the two menstrual cycles
- Abnormal watery discharge from the vagina with the smell
- Pain in the pelvic region or lower part of the abdomen during the sexual intercourse
- Pain while passing urine
- Fever
- Unexplained weight loss
- Excessive sweating at night
Diagnosis
Following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make the diagnosis. These are- Complete blood count ( CBC)
- Serum tumour markers
- Imaging techniques like ultrasonography (USG), CT-scan, MRI, and X-Ray to detect the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
- Pelvic examination through per-speculum examination of the vagina, cervix, and ovaries. A speculum is a gynecological instrument used to visualize the vaginal wall, cervix, uterus, and ovaries to detect any abnormality.
Treatment
Surgery is the most common and effective treatment for clear cell carcinoma of the cervix. Other treatment options are chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.What Support can we Give for Clear Cell Carcinoma of the Cervix?
Clear Cell Carcinoma of the Cervix is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Clear Cell Carcinoma of the Cervix, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
