Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is a cancer that begins in the cervix, the part of the uterus or womb that opens into the vagina
It is the part of the uterus that dilates and opens fully to allow a baby to pass into the birth canal.
The normal cervix has two main types of cells: Squamous or flat cells, that protect the outside of the cervix and Glandular cells, that are mostly inside the cervix, that make the fluid and mucus commonly seen during ovulation.
It is caused by abnormal changes in either of these cell types in the cervix, and is the only gynecologic cancer that can be prevented by regular screening and preventive vaccination. Cervical cancer usually affects women between the ages of 30 and 55.
Symptoms of Cervix Cancer
Cervical cancer and cervical pre-cancers usually have no symptoms. That is why it is important to have a Pap test. A woman usually does not have any symptoms until the cells turn into cancer and invade the deepest parts of the cervix or other pelvic organs.
These are common symptoms in women who have developed cervical cancer.
- Postcoital Bleeding
- Postmenopausal Bleeding
- Vaginal discharge
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Vaginal odor
- Pain
These symptoms may be caused by cancer or by other health problems. It is important for a woman to see her doctor if she is having any of these symptoms.
Diagnosis option for Cervix Cancer
When a woman experiences concerning symptoms, a pelvic exam, including a rectovaginal exam, and a general physical should be performed. If the exam is abnormal, the woman might be recommended to undergo an HPV test or a colposcopy (observing the cervix through a magnifying scope) and a biopsy, depending upon the results of the colposcopy. If there is a frank growth/lesion, a biopsy maybe performed directly. Additional Investigations like CTscan/ MRI of the abdomen or pelvis may be performed if indicated. If cervical cancer is suspected or diagnosed.
Treatment options for Cervix Cancer
Treatment usually depends on the clinical/radiological stage of the tumor. Surgery is the most common treatment for early cervical cancer, although radiation can also be used. The final choice for you will depend on several factors ,especially the stage and size of your cancer as well as your general health.
Surgical options for Cervix Cancer
Radical Abdominal Hysterectomy may be performed through an abdominal incision or laparoscopically. The word 'Radical' means that the uterus and the tissue between the uterus and pelvic wall, as well as part of the upper vagina, are removed. Lymph nodes in the pelvis are also removed and examined to determine if the cancer has spread (radical pelvic lymphadenectomy). In some cases, both ovaries and both fallopian tubes may be removed. Surgery can be done laparoscopically or robotically in selected cases.
