What is Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma?
Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma is a type of endometrial cancer that differs in tissue and cell structure from endometrial cancer but has similar clinical features. Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma usually grows slowly and gives a good prognosis (likely course of cancer) with treatment.
What is Endometrial Cancer?
It is a type of uterine cancer that originates from the inner lining of the uterus named endometrium. It develops due to the abnormal proliferation of the endometrial cells. Proliferation refers to the abnormally rapid division or the multiplication of cells.
Disease Epidemiology
Endometrial adenocarcinoma accounts for approximately 85-90% of all endometrial cases. The average age of disease development is 50-60 years.
Disease Etiology
In 30-90% cases, it develops due to mutation in a PTEN gene. Other risk factors are obesity, nulliparity (a woman who never gave birth to a baby), delayed menopause, hormone replacement therapy, cigarette smoking, the use of combined oral contraceptives, and some anticancer drugs such as Tamoxifen.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms are;
- Pain in the pelvic region ( hip, the lower part of the trunk)
- Bleeding from the vagina in between periods.
- Vaginal bleeding after the menopause
- In some cases, vaginal bleeding can also occur during intercourse.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are;
Physical Examination:
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- Physical examination of the external genital organs (vulva) and internal genital organs (vagina, uterus, and ovaries) using a bimanual examination or per-speculum examination.
- Hysteroscopy: It is a procedure used to diagnose and treat the causes of abnormal vaginal bleeding. Hysteroscopy is performed using a hysteroscopy, a thin, lighted tube that is inserted into the vagina to examine the cervix and the inner side of the uterus.
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Endometrial biopsy
Treatment options: hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus and ovaries), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. Choosing the right option depends on the stage of cancer and the desire to maintain the reproductive system.
What Support can we Give for Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma?
Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma 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 Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma, 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:
