What is Papillary Endometrioid Carcinoma of the Uterus?
Papillary endometrioid carcinoma of the uterus is a rare subtype of endometrial cancer, which is a type of cancer that arises from the endometrium, or the lining of the uterus. The term “papillary” refers to the growth pattern of the tumour, and “endometrioid” pertains to the resemblance of the tumour cells to the normal endometrium. This variant is typically associated with a favourable prognosis compared to more aggressive forms of endometrial cancer.Disease Aetiology (Causes)
While the exact cause of papillary endometrioid carcinoma is not entirely understood, it is likely to involve genetic mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell growth and division. Factors that may increase the risk of endometrial cancer, in general, include obesity, use of estrogen without progesterone, late menopause, never having been pregnant, and certain inherited cancer syndromes.Diagnosis
The diagnosis of papillary endometrioid carcinoma often involves:- Detailed medical history and physical examination
- Endometrial biopsy or dilation and curettage (D&C) to obtain tissue for examination under a microscope
- Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to ascertain the size, location, and extent of the tumour
Treatment
The treatment for papillary endometrioid carcinoma of the uterus generally involves:- The primary treatment, involves the surgical removal of the uterus (hysterectomy), along with the fallopian tubes and ovaries.
- This can be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Hormone Therapy: This involves the use of drugs to block hormone receptors in cancer cells, thereby slowing the growth of the cancer.
- Chemotherapy: This may be considered in some cases, particularly for more advanced diseases or if the cancer recurs.