Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma

• Endometrioid adenocarcinoma is the most prevalent form of uterine cancer, arising from the endometrial lining.
• Common symptoms include abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially postmenopausal bleeding, and pelvic pain.
• Diagnosis typically involves a pelvic exam, imaging, and a definitive endometrial biopsy.
• Treatment often includes surgery, with radiation, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy used depending on the stage and characteristics of the cancer.
• Early detection significantly improves prognosis due to its typically slow-growing nature.

What is Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma?

Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma refers to a malignant tumor that develops from the glandular cells of the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus. It is the most common subtype of endometrial cancer, accounting for approximately 80% of all cases. This type of cancer is often characterized by its resemblance to normal endometrial tissue under a microscope, and it typically grows relatively slowly, making early detection more probable.

The incidence of endometrial cancer, including the endometrioid type, has been rising in many countries. According to the American Cancer Society, uterine cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women in the United States, with most cases being endometrioid adenocarcinoma. Its prevalence highlights the importance of awareness regarding its risk factors and symptoms.

Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosis of Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma

Recognizing the Endometrioid adenocarcinoma symptoms and causes is vital for timely medical intervention. The most common symptom is abnormal vaginal bleeding, particularly postmenopausal bleeding or irregular bleeding between periods in premenopausal women. Other potential symptoms may include pelvic pain or pressure, changes in bowel or bladder habits, or unusual vaginal discharge.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing endometrioid adenocarcinoma. These include prolonged exposure to estrogen without adequate progesterone, which can occur with obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or certain hormone therapies. Other risk factors include diabetes, Lynch syndrome (a hereditary cancer syndrome), and a history of tamoxifen use for breast cancer. However, it’s important to note that not everyone with these risk factors will develop the cancer.

Diagnosing endometrioid adenocarcinoma typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination, including a pelvic exam. Imaging tests such as a transvaginal ultrasound may be performed to visualize the uterus and endometrial thickness. The definitive diagnosis, however, is made through an endometrial biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken from the uterine lining and examined under a microscope. If cancer is confirmed, further imaging like MRI or CT scans may be used to determine the stage and extent of the disease.

Treatment Options for Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma

The approach to Endometrioid adenocarcinoma treatment is highly individualized, depending on the cancer’s stage, grade, the patient’s overall health, and other factors. The primary treatment for most cases is surgery, which typically involves a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), often along with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries). Lymph node dissection may also be performed to check for cancer spread.

Beyond surgery, other treatment modalities may be employed:

• Radiation Therapy: This uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It can be delivered externally (external beam radiation) or internally (brachytherapy) and may be used after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence or as a primary treatment if surgery is not an option.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It is typically reserved for more advanced stages of the disease or when the cancer has recurred.
• Hormone Therapy: Since many endometrioid adenocarcinomas are hormone-sensitive, treatments that block estrogen or provide high doses of progesterone can be effective, particularly for recurrent or advanced disease.
• Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: These newer treatments specifically target certain molecules involved in cancer growth or boost the body’s immune response against cancer cells. They are often considered for advanced or recurrent cases that have specific genetic markers.

A multidisciplinary team of specialists, including gynecologic oncologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, collaborates to develop the most appropriate treatment plan for each patient, aiming to achieve the best possible outcomes.