Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial Cancer (cancer inside the uterus) is a type of cancer that occurs due to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells in the endometrium tissue lining the inner layer of the uterus. It is one of the most common gynecological cancers in women. It usually occurs in the postmenopausal period, but can also be seen in younger ages. Due to early symptoms (especially abnormal vaginal bleeding), early diagnosis can be made in most cases. The treatment plan is determined according to the stage of the disease, the patient’s age, general health status, and fertility desire. 33f
What is Endometrial Cancer?
Endometrial cancer occurs with the abnormal proliferation of endometrial cells that form the inner surface of the uterus. The most common type is “endometrioid adenocarcinoma.” Long-term exposure to the hormone estrogen is usually effective in the development of the disease. Obesity, diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), late menopause, and not having given birth are among the risk factors. Since it presents with symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, spotting, or discharge in the early period, the likelihood of early diagnosis is high. ⚕️
How Does Endometrial Cancer Develop?
The inner lining of the uterus thickens and sheds under the influence of estrogen and progesterone hormones with each menstrual cycle. In cases where estrogen is dominant for a long time and progesterone is insufficient, endometrial cells proliferate excessively. This process is called “endometrial hyperplasia” and can turn into cancer if not treated. Therefore, early evaluation in cases of irregular bleeding is very important. 97a
Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer
The most common symptom is vaginal bleeding. Any bleeding seen especially in the postmenopausal period should be alarming. Other than that:
d Spotting or bleeding outside of menstruation
d Postmenopausal discharge or bloody discharge
d Groin or lower abdominal pain
d Bleeding after sexual intercourse
d Fatigue, weight loss, or anemia
These symptoms may indicate uncontrolled growth in the inner lining of the uterus. 4cc
How is Endometrial Cancer Diagnosed?
The first step in diagnosis is transvaginal ultrasound. The thickness of the endometrium is measured, and in suspicious cases, an endometrial biopsy (taking a tissue sample from the uterus) is performed. If necessary, the inside of the uterus can be directly visualized with hysteroscopy. After the diagnosis is confirmed, imaging methods such as MRI or CT are used to determine the stage of the disease. This is a critical step in forming an appropriate treatment plan. 9ec
Stages of Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial cancer is evaluated in four main stages:
d Stage I: The cancer is confined to the uterus.
d Stage II: It has spread to the cervix.
d Stage III: It has spread outside the uterus (ovaries, vagina, lymph nodes).
d Stage IV: There is spread to distant organs (lungs, liver, etc.).
The success of treatment is very high in patients diagnosed at an early stage. ✅
Treatment of Endometrial Cancer
The treatment plan is determined according to the stage of the cancer and the patient’s fertility status. In early stages, surgical treatment is usually the first choice. Radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy may be added if necessary. A multidisciplinary approach (gynecology, oncology, radiation oncology) increases the success of treatment. 338
Surgical Treatment
The standard treatment for early-stage endometrial cancer is hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries and tubes). If necessary, lymph nodes are also removed to assess spread. Minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic) surgical methods provide a shorter recovery time and comfort. If the disease is early-stage and limited, this treatment alone may be sufficient. ⚕️
Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy
In more advanced stages or in patients with a high risk of recurrence after surgery, radiotherapy (radiation therapy) and chemotherapy are applied. Radiotherapy aims to destroy microscopic cancer cells remaining in the uterine area. Chemotherapy provides systemic control of spread cells. These two treatment methods can sometimes be applied together. 4a1
Hormone Therapy
In estrogen-sensitive tumors, especially in early-stage and young patients, hormone therapy may be an option. The disease can be controlled with drugs containing progesterone (e.g., medroxyprogesterone or levonorgestrel-containing IUD). This method offers a temporary treatment option as an alternative to surgery for women who wish to preserve their fertility. 933
Post-Treatment Follow-Up
After treatment is completed, checks are done every three months for the first 2 years, and then every six months. Follow-up is maintained with examination, ultrasound, smear, and imaging methods if necessary. Regular check-ups are vital as the risk of recurrence is highest in the first 3 years. Additionally, healthy eating, weight control, and exercise support recovery in the post-treatment period. 9d800d640e0f
| Stage | Treatment Method | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Stage I | Hysterectomy + Removal of Ovaries | Early stage, surgery is usually sufficient |
| Stage II013III | Surgery + Radiotherapy/Chemotherapy | Additional treatment is needed if spread is present |
| Stage IV | Systemic Chemotherapy + Targeted Therapy | Advanced disease, treatment focused on quality of life |
Endometrial Cancer Treatment Costs
Endometrial cancer treatment costs vary depending on the type of treatment to be applied (surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, etc.), the stage of the disease, and the length of hospital stay. Since each patient’s situation is different, price information is determined after examination and detailed evaluation. For current information and a personalized treatment plan, please contact our clinic. 4de
Conclusion: Endometrial cancer is a disease that can be treated with a high rate when diagnosed early. Taking irregular vaginal bleeding seriously, regular gynecological examinations, and an appropriate treatment plan are the keys to a healthy future. A scientifically based approach and careful follow-up increase both lifespan and quality of life. 90d
Frequently Asked Questions About Endometrial Cancer
Question: Who is more likely to develop endometrial cancer?
It is more common in women with obesity, advanced age, hormonal imbalance, and those receiving estrogen therapy. ✅
Question: Can endometrial cancer be diagnosed early?
Yes. Especially postmenopausal bleeding is the earliest symptom. Diagnosis is possible with a biopsy performed in the early period. 33f
Question: Does endometrial cancer recur after treatment?
The risk of recurrence is low in cases treated at an early stage; however, regular follow-up is necessary.
Question: Can I be treated while preserving my fertility?
Yes. In early-stage, hormone-sensitive cases, temporary fertility preservation can be achieved with hormone therapy. 933
