Ask a doctor - What treatment options are available for uterine cancer?

Q. What treatment options are available for uterine cancer?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

The choice of treatment for uterine cancer depends on various factors, including the stage of cancer, the type of uterine cancer, the patient's overall health, and individual preferences. Common treatment options for uterine cancer include:

1. Surgery:
- Hysterectomy: The most common surgical procedure for uterine cancer involves the removal of the uterus and, in some cases, surrounding tissues such as the fallopian tubes and ovaries.
- Lymph Node Dissection: Lymph nodes in the pelvic and/or para-aortic regions may be removed and examined to determine if the cancer has spread.

2. Radiation Therapy:
- External Beam Radiation: High-energy rays are directed at the pelvic area from outside the body to target and kill cancer cells.
- Brachytherapy: Radioactive sources are placed directly into or near the tumor, delivering radiation internally.

3. Chemotherapy:
- The use of drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used before surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery (adjuvant), or as the primary treatment for advanced or recurrent cancer.

4. Hormone Therapy:
- For certain types of uterine cancer, such as endometrial stromal sarcoma or well-differentiated endometrioid adenocarcinoma, hormone therapy may be employed to block or reduce the effect of hormones that stimulate cancer growth.

5. Targeted Therapy:
- Targeted drugs may be used to specifically target and interfere with the growth of cancer cells. This is often considered in advanced or recurrent cases.

6. Immunotherapy:
- Immunotherapy drugs stimulate the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. While not yet a standard treatment for uterine cancer, research is ongoing in this area.

The specific treatment plan is determined based on the individual characteristics of the cancer, including its stage and type, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be recommended, such as surgery followed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Patients are encouraged to discuss treatment options, potential side effects, and long-term outcomes with their healthcare team to make informed decisions about their care. Additionally, seeking a second opinion can be beneficial in ensuring that the chosen treatment plan aligns with the most current and effective approaches to managing uterine cancer.