What are the different types of cervical lesions. How are cervical lesions detected and diagnosed. What factors contribute to the development of cervical cancer. How can cervical cancer be prevented through screening and vaccination.

Understanding Cervical Lesions and Their Significance

Cervical lesions are abnormal patches of cells growing on the cervix, the passageway between the vagina and uterus. These lesions can be precancerous or cancerous, making them a crucial focus in cervical cancer prevention and early detection efforts. While cervical cancer rates have decreased due to improved screening methods, it remains a significant health concern, with an estimated 14,100 new cases diagnosed in the United States in 2022.

Types of Cervical Lesions

Cervical lesions are categorized based on their potential to develop into cancer:

• Precancerous lesions: These abnormal cell changes have the potential to develop into cancer but often resolve on their own.
• Cancerous lesions: These contain malignant cells and require immediate treatment.

Medical Terms for Precancerous Lesions

Healthcare providers may use various terms to describe precancerous cervical lesions:

• Cervical dysplasia
• Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)
• Squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL)

Classification of Precancerous Cervical Lesions

Precancerous lesions are classified into three categories based on the extent of abnormal cell growth:

1. CIN1 (mild dysplasia): Only a few cells appear abnormal and often resolve without treatment.
2. CIN2 and CIN3 (moderate dysplasia): More cells are abnormal, and treatment may be necessary.
3. High-grade SIL (severe dysplasia): The most serious type, requiring immediate treatment.

Types of Cancerous Cervical Lesions

Cancerous cervical lesions are classified based on the location and type of affected cells:

• Squamous cell carcinoma: Originates in the exocervix cells, accounting for 90% of cervical cancers.
• Adenocarcinoma: Begins in the glandular cells of the endocervix.
• Adenosquamous carcinoma: Affects both squamous and glandular cells in the cervix.

Causes and Risk Factors for Cervical Lesions

The primary cause of cervical lesions is human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. HPV is responsible for more than 90% of cervical cancers, with approximately 14 high-risk HPV types contributing to the majority of cases. While HPV infection is common, the immune system usually clears it. However, persistent high-risk HPV infections can lead to cancer development.

Additional Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer:

• Family history of cervical cancer
• Smoking
• Weakened immune system
• Long-term use of birth control pills
• Current or previous chlamydia infection
• Early age at first full-term pregnancy (17 years or younger)
• Multiple full-term pregnancies (three or more)
• Sexual history factors that increase HPV exposure risk

Prevention and Screening for Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is highly preventable through vaccination and regular screening. The HPV vaccine has shown remarkable efficacy, with a 2020 study demonstrating that vaccination before age 17 reduced cervical cancer risk by nearly 90%.

Screening Methods

Cervical cancer screening is crucial for early detection and prevention. Two primary screening methods are used:

• HPV test: Detects the presence of high-risk HPV types in cervical cells
• Pap test: Examines cervical cells for abnormalities

These tests may be performed individually or in combination, depending on age and risk factors.

Treatment Options for Cervical Lesions

Treatment for cervical lesions depends on their severity and classification. Options may include:

• Watchful waiting for mild dysplasia (CIN1)
• Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP)
• Cryotherapy
• Laser therapy
• Conization

For cancerous lesions, treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches.

The Importance of HPV Vaccination in Cervical Cancer Prevention

HPV vaccination plays a crucial role in preventing cervical cancer. The vaccine is most effective when administered before exposure to HPV, typically recommended for preteens and teens. However, catch-up vaccination is available for adults up to age 45 who have not been previously vaccinated.

Vaccine Efficacy and Safety

HPV vaccines have demonstrated high efficacy in preventing HPV infections and associated precancerous lesions. The vaccines are safe, with extensive clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance confirming their safety profile.

Empowering Women Through Education and Regular Screening

Education about cervical health and the importance of regular screening is vital for reducing cervical cancer incidence. Women should be encouraged to:

• Understand the risk factors for cervical cancer
• Follow recommended screening guidelines
• Consider HPV vaccination if eligible
• Practice safe sex to reduce HPV exposure
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support overall immune function

By empowering women with knowledge and access to preventive care, we can significantly reduce the burden of cervical cancer worldwide.

Advancements in Cervical Cancer Research and Treatment

Ongoing research in cervical cancer prevention, detection, and treatment continues to improve outcomes for patients. Some areas of focus include:

• Development of more sensitive and specific screening tests
• Improved HPV vaccines targeting a broader range of high-risk types
• Novel targeted therapies for advanced cervical cancer
• Immunotherapy approaches to enhance the body’s natural defenses against cancer

These advancements hold promise for further reducing cervical cancer incidence and improving survival rates for those affected by the disease.

Global Efforts to Eliminate Cervical Cancer

The World Health Organization (WHO) has set ambitious goals to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem globally. This initiative aims to:

• Vaccinate 90% of girls against HPV by age 15
• Screen 70% of women using a high-performance test by age 35 and again by 45
• Treat 90% of women identified with cervical disease

Achieving these targets could reduce cervical cancer incidence by more than 40% by 2050, saving millions of lives worldwide.

Challenges and Opportunities

While progress has been made in cervical cancer prevention and control, significant challenges remain, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to screening and treatment may be limited. Addressing these disparities through improved healthcare infrastructure, education, and resource allocation is crucial for achieving global cervical cancer elimination goals.

The Role of Healthcare Providers in Cervical Cancer Prevention

Healthcare providers play a pivotal role in cervical cancer prevention and early detection. Their responsibilities include:

• Educating patients about cervical cancer risks and prevention strategies
• Recommending and administering HPV vaccinations
• Conducting regular cervical cancer screenings
• Providing appropriate follow-up care for abnormal test results
• Staying informed about the latest guidelines and advancements in cervical cancer prevention and treatment

By fostering open communication and building trust with patients, healthcare providers can significantly impact cervical cancer prevention efforts.

Overcoming Barriers to Cervical Cancer Screening and Prevention

Despite the availability of effective screening and prevention methods, various barriers can hinder access to these services. Common obstacles include:

• Lack of awareness about the importance of screening
• Limited access to healthcare services
• Cultural or religious beliefs that discourage screening
• Fear or embarrassment associated with gynecological examinations
• Financial constraints

Addressing these barriers requires a multifaceted approach, including:

• Community outreach and education programs
• Mobile screening units to reach underserved areas
• Cultural sensitivity training for healthcare providers
• Financial assistance programs for low-income individuals
• Integration of cervical cancer screening with other health services

The Future of Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment

As research continues to advance our understanding of cervical cancer and its prevention, several promising developments are on the horizon:

• Self-sampling HPV tests for home use, increasing access to screening
• Artificial intelligence-assisted analysis of cervical images for more accurate diagnosis
• Personalized treatment approaches based on genetic profiling of tumors
• Development of therapeutic vaccines to treat existing HPV infections and precancerous lesions
• Enhanced global collaboration to implement effective prevention strategies worldwide

These advancements hold the potential to further reduce the global burden of cervical cancer and improve outcomes for those affected by the disease.

Empowering Communities in the Fight Against Cervical Cancer

Effective cervical cancer prevention requires a community-wide effort. Strategies to engage and empower communities include:

• Partnering with local organizations to promote awareness and screening
• Engaging male partners and family members in cervical health education
• Utilizing peer educators to disseminate information and encourage screening
• Incorporating cervical cancer education into school health programs
• Leveraging social media and digital platforms to reach younger generations

By fostering a supportive environment and promoting collective responsibility for cervical health, communities can play a crucial role in reducing cervical cancer incidence.

Integrating Cervical Cancer Prevention into Primary Healthcare

Integrating cervical cancer prevention services into primary healthcare systems can significantly improve access and uptake. This approach involves:

• Training primary care providers in HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening
• Implementing reminder systems for routine screenings
• Offering HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening during routine health visits
• Establishing clear referral pathways for abnormal results
• Utilizing electronic health records to track screening history and ensure timely follow-up

By making cervical cancer prevention a routine part of primary care, we can reach more women and detect potential issues earlier, leading to better outcomes.

The Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on Cervical Cancer Risk

Socioeconomic factors play a significant role in cervical cancer risk and outcomes. Women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often face increased challenges, including:

• Limited access to healthcare services
• Lower rates of HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening
• Higher prevalence of risk factors such as smoking and early sexual debut
• Delayed diagnosis and treatment due to financial constraints
• Reduced awareness of cervical cancer prevention strategies

Addressing these disparities requires targeted interventions and policies aimed at improving healthcare access and education for underserved populations.

The Role of Nutrition in Cervical Cancer Prevention

While HPV infection is the primary cause of cervical cancer, nutrition may play a role in prevention and supporting overall health during treatment. Some dietary factors that may influence cervical cancer risk include:

• Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, which may help protect against cellular damage
• Adequate folate intake, which is important for DNA repair and synthesis
• Vitamin D, which may have anti-cancer properties
• Omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory effects

While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between diet and cervical cancer, maintaining a balanced, nutrient-rich diet is beneficial for overall health and may contribute to cancer prevention efforts.

Psychological Support for Women with Cervical Lesions

A diagnosis of cervical lesions or cervical cancer can have significant psychological impacts on women. Providing comprehensive care includes addressing the emotional and mental health aspects of the diagnosis and treatment process. Key components of psychological support include:

• Counseling services to help women cope with anxiety and fear
• Support groups for women to share experiences and coping strategies
• Education about the diagnosis, treatment options, and expected outcomes
• Addressing concerns about fertility and sexual health
• Involving partners and family members in the support process

By providing holistic care that addresses both physical and emotional needs, healthcare providers can improve overall outcomes and quality of life for women facing cervical health challenges.

Types, Tests, and Cancer Prevention

Cervical cancer starts in the cervix, which is the passageway between the vagina and the uterus. Cervical lesions are patches of abnormal cells growing on the cervix.

Sometimes, cervical lesions are made of precancerous cells. Other times, cervical lesions contain cancerous cells.

Thanks to regular screening methods, cervical cancer is not as common as it used to be. The National Cancer Institute estimates that 14,100 people in the United States will be newly diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2022. This will make up about 0.7 percent of all new cancer diagnoses.

Keep reading to learn about the different types of cervical cancer lesions and how they’re diagnosed and treated.

Precancerous cervical lesions happen when cells in the cervix begin to develop abnormal changes. This means they have the potential to develop into cancerous lesions.

Most precancerous cervical lesions go away on their own, without causing any problems. But in some people, these precancerous lesions develop into cancer. Treating precancerous lesions can prevent cervical cancer.

A doctor might use a variety of medical terms when talking about precancerous cervical lesions, including:

• cervical dysplasia
• cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)
• squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL)

When examined under a microscope, precancerous cervical lesions are classified into one of three categories. These categories depend on how much of the cervix appears abnormal:

• CIN1 (mild dysplasia): Only a few of the cells appear abnormal. This type will often go away on its own without treatment.
• CIN2 and CIN3 (moderate dysplasia): More of the cells are abnormal. Because this type sometimes goes away on its own, you may choose to get regular screenings instead of treatment after talking with your doctor.
• High grade SIL (severe dysplasia): This is the most serious type. It needs to be treated right away.

Cancerous cervical lesions are classified according to the location of the cancerous cells. These can include cells of the:

• Exocervix: This is the outer part of your cervix that faces down into your vagina. It’s the part that a doctor looks at as a part of a pelvic exam. The cells of the exocervix are called squamous cells.
• Endocervix: This is the inner part of your cervix that faces up toward the uterus. The cells here are called glandular cells.

As such, the main types of cervical cancers are:

• Squamous cell carcinoma: Squamous cell carcinoma begins in the cells of the exocervix, often at the meeting point between the exocervix and endocervix.
• Adenocarcinoma: Adenocarcinoma begins in the glandular cells of the endocervix.
• Adenosquamous carcinoma: Adenosquamous carcinoma affects both squamous and glandular cells in the cervix.

Overall, squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of cervical cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, it accounts for 9 out of 10 cervical cancers.

The main cause of cervical lesions is an infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HPV causes more than 9 out of 10 cervical cancers.

Not all types of HPV can cause cervical cancer. There are about 14 types of HPV that are considered high risk and are responsible for the majority of cancers that are caused by HPV.

HPV infection is very common. Most people contract HPV at some point after becoming sexually active. While the immune system typically clears the infection, sometimes high risk types of HPV can remain and lead to cancer.

The good news is that cervical cancer is now a very preventable cancer because of the HPV vaccine. A 2020 study found that, when given before age 17, the HPV vaccine reduced the risk of cervical cancer by almost 90 percent.

Cervical cancer risk factors

In addition to HPV infection, other risk factors for cervical cancer are:

• having a family history of cervical cancer
• smoking
• having a weakened immune system
• taking birth control pills for a long time
• currently or previously having chlamydia, a sexually transmitted infection (STI)
• factors related to pregnancy, such as being 17 years or younger at the time of your first full-term pregnancy or having three or more full-term pregnancies
• factors related to sexual history, which can raise the risk of contracting HPV, such as:
  • having had many sexual partners
  • becoming sexually active at a younger age
  • having a sexual partner who has a known HPV infection or who has had many sexual partners

Cervical cancer screening is vital in preventing cervical cancer. This can include an HPV test, a Pap test, or both.

The HPV test uses a sample of cervical cells to test for HPV. While it doesn’t specifically detect cervical lesions, it can alert your doctor to the presence of a high risk type of HPV that could lead to precancerous or cancerous changes in the future.

A Pap test also uses a sample of cells collected from the cervix. The cells are examined under a microscope to check for abnormal changes.

The current American Cancer Society cervical cancer screening guidelines are that all people with a cervix between the ages of 25 and 65 get a primary HPV test every 5 years.

If HPV primary testing isn’t available, HPV-Pap co-testing every 5 years, or a Pap test every 3 years, may also be used.

What if my screening result is abnormal?

If the results of your HPV or Pap test come back abnormal, your doctor may do a colposcopy or cervical biopsy. These are two procedures that let them examine the cells of your cervix more closely to check for precancer or cancer.

During a colposcopy, a doctor uses a speculum to open the vagina so they can see the cervix. They then insert a device called a colposcope that has a light and a magnifying glass to help them get a better view of the cervix.

It’s possible that a biopsy may be taken during the colposcopy. In a biopsy, a small sample of cervical cells is removed. The sample is then examined in a lab for signs of precancerous or cancerous cells.

Symptoms of cervical lesions

Precancerous cervical lesions often don’t cause symptoms. Because of this, many people don’t know they have them.

The same can be said about early cancerous lesions. Overall, most people with cervical cancer don’t have symptoms until the cancer has become more advanced. Some of the most common symptoms can include:

• abnormal vaginal bleeding, including:
  • after sex
  • between periods
  • menstrual periods that are much heavier or longer than usual
• after menopause
• vaginal discharge that may contain blood or may smell foul
• pain after sex
• pelvic pain

The fact that precancerous and early cervical cancer lesions don’t typically lead to symptoms makes regular cervical cancer screenings very important for early detection.

For some people, precancerous cervical lesions will go away without treatment. However, if you do have precancerous cervical lesions, getting treatment can go a long way in preventing them from becoming cancerous in the future.

Treatment involves removing the precancerous lesions. This can be accomplished in a few ways.

Ablation-based treatments work by destroying precancerous lesions. This can be done using cold (cryotherapy) or heat (laser surgery).

Excisional treatments remove the precancerous lesions. This can be done with a scalpel that removes a cone-shaped section of tissue (cold knife conization) or by using a thin wire loop containing an electrical current (LEEP).

It takes a long time to develop cervical cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it can take 15 to 20 years for cervical cancer to develop.

However, the WHO also notes this time frame is different for people with weakened immune systems. This can include people who are:

• living with HIV
• taking immunosuppressive drugs
• organ or bone marrow transplant recipients
• undergoing cancer treatments, like chemotherapy

In people with a weakened immune system, the WHO states cervical cancer can develop in a shorter span of time — about 5 to 10 years.

Precancerous cervical lesions are abnormal changes in cells of the cervix that are not yet cancerous. Some precancerous lesions go away on their own. Others will need to be treated to prevent cancer from developing.

Cervical lesions are mainly caused by HPV infection. Screening tests can detect HPV as well as abnormal changes to cervical cells. An HPV vaccine is available that can greatly reduce the risk of HPV infection and cervical cancer.

It’s not common for precancerous or early cancerous cervical lesions to cause symptoms. This makes regular cervical cancer screenings all the more vital for detecting and treating these lesions early.

Types, Tests, and Cancer Prevention

Cervical cancer starts in the cervix, which is the passageway between the vagina and the uterus. Cervical lesions are patches of abnormal cells growing on the cervix.

Sometimes, cervical lesions are made of precancerous cells. Other times, cervical lesions contain cancerous cells.

Thanks to regular screening methods, cervical cancer is not as common as it used to be. The National Cancer Institute estimates that 14,100 people in the United States will be newly diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2022. This will make up about 0.7 percent of all new cancer diagnoses.

Keep reading to learn about the different types of cervical cancer lesions and how they’re diagnosed and treated.

Precancerous cervical lesions happen when cells in the cervix begin to develop abnormal changes. This means they have the potential to develop into cancerous lesions.

Most precancerous cervical lesions go away on their own, without causing any problems. But in some people, these precancerous lesions develop into cancer. Treating precancerous lesions can prevent cervical cancer.

A doctor might use a variety of medical terms when talking about precancerous cervical lesions, including:

• cervical dysplasia
• cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)
• squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL)

When examined under a microscope, precancerous cervical lesions are classified into one of three categories. These categories depend on how much of the cervix appears abnormal:

• CIN1 (mild dysplasia): Only a few of the cells appear abnormal. This type will often go away on its own without treatment.
• CIN2 and CIN3 (moderate dysplasia): More of the cells are abnormal. Because this type sometimes goes away on its own, you may choose to get regular screenings instead of treatment after talking with your doctor.
• High grade SIL (severe dysplasia): This is the most serious type. It needs to be treated right away.

Cancerous cervical lesions are classified according to the location of the cancerous cells. These can include cells of the:

• Exocervix: This is the outer part of your cervix that faces down into your vagina. It’s the part that a doctor looks at as a part of a pelvic exam. The cells of the exocervix are called squamous cells.
• Endocervix: This is the inner part of your cervix that faces up toward the uterus. The cells here are called glandular cells.

As such, the main types of cervical cancers are:

• Squamous cell carcinoma: Squamous cell carcinoma begins in the cells of the exocervix, often at the meeting point between the exocervix and endocervix.
• Adenocarcinoma: Adenocarcinoma begins in the glandular cells of the endocervix.
• Adenosquamous carcinoma: Adenosquamous carcinoma affects both squamous and glandular cells in the cervix.

Overall, squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of cervical cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, it accounts for 9 out of 10 cervical cancers.

The main cause of cervical lesions is an infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HPV causes more than 9 out of 10 cervical cancers.

Not all types of HPV can cause cervical cancer. There are about 14 types of HPV that are considered high risk and are responsible for the majority of cancers that are caused by HPV.

HPV infection is very common. Most people contract HPV at some point after becoming sexually active. While the immune system typically clears the infection, sometimes high risk types of HPV can remain and lead to cancer.

The good news is that cervical cancer is now a very preventable cancer because of the HPV vaccine. A 2020 study found that, when given before age 17, the HPV vaccine reduced the risk of cervical cancer by almost 90 percent.

Cervical cancer risk factors

In addition to HPV infection, other risk factors for cervical cancer are:

• having a family history of cervical cancer
• smoking
• having a weakened immune system
• taking birth control pills for a long time
• currently or previously having chlamydia, a sexually transmitted infection (STI)
• factors related to pregnancy, such as being 17 years or younger at the time of your first full-term pregnancy or having three or more full-term pregnancies
• factors related to sexual history, which can raise the risk of contracting HPV, such as:
  • having had many sexual partners
  • becoming sexually active at a younger age
  • having a sexual partner who has a known HPV infection or who has had many sexual partners

Cervical cancer screening is vital in preventing cervical cancer. This can include an HPV test, a Pap test, or both.

The HPV test uses a sample of cervical cells to test for HPV. While it doesn’t specifically detect cervical lesions, it can alert your doctor to the presence of a high risk type of HPV that could lead to precancerous or cancerous changes in the future.

A Pap test also uses a sample of cells collected from the cervix. The cells are examined under a microscope to check for abnormal changes.

The current American Cancer Society cervical cancer screening guidelines are that all people with a cervix between the ages of 25 and 65 get a primary HPV test every 5 years.

If HPV primary testing isn’t available, HPV-Pap co-testing every 5 years, or a Pap test every 3 years, may also be used.

What if my screening result is abnormal?

If the results of your HPV or Pap test come back abnormal, your doctor may do a colposcopy or cervical biopsy. These are two procedures that let them examine the cells of your cervix more closely to check for precancer or cancer.

During a colposcopy, a doctor uses a speculum to open the vagina so they can see the cervix. They then insert a device called a colposcope that has a light and a magnifying glass to help them get a better view of the cervix.

It’s possible that a biopsy may be taken during the colposcopy. In a biopsy, a small sample of cervical cells is removed. The sample is then examined in a lab for signs of precancerous or cancerous cells.

Symptoms of cervical lesions

Precancerous cervical lesions often don’t cause symptoms. Because of this, many people don’t know they have them.

The same can be said about early cancerous lesions. Overall, most people with cervical cancer don’t have symptoms until the cancer has become more advanced. Some of the most common symptoms can include:

• abnormal vaginal bleeding, including:
  • after sex
  • between periods
  • menstrual periods that are much heavier or longer than usual
• after menopause
• vaginal discharge that may contain blood or may smell foul
• pain after sex
• pelvic pain

The fact that precancerous and early cervical cancer lesions don’t typically lead to symptoms makes regular cervical cancer screenings very important for early detection.

For some people, precancerous cervical lesions will go away without treatment. However, if you do have precancerous cervical lesions, getting treatment can go a long way in preventing them from becoming cancerous in the future.

Treatment involves removing the precancerous lesions. This can be accomplished in a few ways.

Ablation-based treatments work by destroying precancerous lesions. This can be done using cold (cryotherapy) or heat (laser surgery).

Excisional treatments remove the precancerous lesions. This can be done with a scalpel that removes a cone-shaped section of tissue (cold knife conization) or by using a thin wire loop containing an electrical current (LEEP).

It takes a long time to develop cervical cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it can take 15 to 20 years for cervical cancer to develop.

However, the WHO also notes this time frame is different for people with weakened immune systems. This can include people who are:

• living with HIV
• taking immunosuppressive drugs
• organ or bone marrow transplant recipients
• undergoing cancer treatments, like chemotherapy

In people with a weakened immune system, the WHO states cervical cancer can develop in a shorter span of time — about 5 to 10 years.

Precancerous cervical lesions are abnormal changes in cells of the cervix that are not yet cancerous. Some precancerous lesions go away on their own. Others will need to be treated to prevent cancer from developing.

Cervical lesions are mainly caused by HPV infection. Screening tests can detect HPV as well as abnormal changes to cervical cells. An HPV vaccine is available that can greatly reduce the risk of HPV infection and cervical cancer.

It’s not common for precancerous or early cancerous cervical lesions to cause symptoms. This makes regular cervical cancer screenings all the more vital for detecting and treating these lesions early.

Benign neoplasms of the cervix

Benign neoplasms of the cervix are small tumors (seals, nodules or polyps) that do not contain cancer cells and, as a result, are incapable of malignancy.

Such neoplasms are considered conditionally safe, since they practically do not carry the risk of developing oncology. However, with prolonged absence of treatment and accelerated growth, they can cause significant discomfort to the female body.

Among the most common types of benign tumors are fibromyomas, myomas, polyps and cystic formations.

Fibromyoma is a small tumor or induration on the cervix, consisting of connective tissue cells. As a rule, it develops asymptomatically. A rapid increase in size is an indication for surgical intervention.

Myoma is a fairly common disease characterized by uncontrolled division of muscle tissue cells, which leads to the formation of a tumor. In the early stages, the growth of fibroids is asymptomatic. Subsequently, however, it can cause irregular bleeding. With infectious lesions, pain in the lower abdomen, vaginal discharge appear. A complicated form of fibroids can cause cystitis and bladder diseases.

Cervical polyps are another common type of benign growth. Polyps are formed directly on the mucous membrane of the cervix and are small seals “on the leg”. Symptoms of polyps include white or yellow vaginal discharge, minor vaginal bleeding after intercourse, and heavy periods.

Causes of benign tumors of the cervix are:

• Elevated levels of the female sex hormone estrogen.
• Chronic inflammation of the vagina or cervix.
• Injury to the cervix during surgical interventions.
• Bacterial infection.

Since in the vast majority of cases, benign lesions of the cervix develop asymptomatically, they can be diagnosed by visual examination of the patient on the chair.

In order to establish an accurate diagnosis, calposcopy is performed – an examination with an increase in the cervix. Also, tests are taken from the cervical canal and a smear for cytology.

Treatment of benign tumors involves their removal. To do this, use the following methods:

• Cauterization with special solutions.
• Cryotherapy – exposure to low temperatures, at which the cells of the formation begin to collapse.
• Laser treatment.
• Radio wave treatment.

City Clinical Hospital named after Yudin S.S. uses in its work the most innovative methods of diagnosis and treatment of benign formations. Specialized laboratories and operating rooms are equipped with the latest technology, and experienced doctors and nurses coordinate their tasks so that each patient can receive qualified assistance as quickly as possible.

Tumor of the uterus: causes, symptoms, types

1. Causes
2. Symptoms
3. Types of uterine tumor
   • Malignant
   • Benign
4. Stages of uterine cancer
5. Treatment
   • Diagnosis
   • Therapy
   • Operation
6. Further development of the situation and forecast

A uterine tumor is a neoplasm that is either benign or malignant. The tumor is an overgrown tissue and localized in one or more places. Uncontrolled cell division into a tumor occurs under the influence of a number of factors.

Causes

Tumors of the uterus can occur for reasons such as hormonal imbalance, infections and inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs, various injuries, and surgical interventions. The development of certain types of neoplasms is influenced by hereditary predisposition.

Tumors of the uterus and appendages are often caused by a combination of adverse factors affecting the body: frequent stress, general fatigue and weakness, chronic inflammatory processes of nearby organs (for example, the intestines) play a negative role.

The causes of cervical tumor formation are inflammatory diseases of the vagina, dysbacteriosis, dysbiosis. In many cases, disorders can occur when the synthesis of sex hormones changes. Cervical tumors provoked by such a reason as the presence in the body of certain types of human papillomavirus have an oncogenic risk.

Regular visits to the gynecologist are recommended to prevent the development of tumors. In the absence of problems, it is necessary to see a doctor at intervals of once every six months.

Symptoms

In women in the period of menopause, the first symptoms that may indicate a uterine tumor may be:

• Menstrual irregularity. Immediately before menopause, bloody discharge becomes less frequent and decreases in volume. But with a tumor, the discharge can again become more frequent and become abundant.

In post-menopausal women who have not had a period for more than 2 months, symptoms may include:

• Any discharge with blood and bleeding.

In women of all ages, the following symptoms may indicate the presence of a uterine tumor:

• irregular spotting;
• constipation;
• fatigue.

The following types of pain may disturb:

• in the lumbar region;
• lower abdomen;
• in the crotch;
• when urinating;
• after intercourse.

Types of uterine tumors

Tumors can be benign or malignant. Benign tumors can develop for years, do not cause discomfort and danger to life. They are easily treatable. Malignant growths (cancer) grow rapidly and can be a serious threat to life. Treatment of such tumors is more successful the earlier they are diagnosed.

Malignant tumors

Classification of cancer depends on the location of the tumor in the uterus and the type of cancer cells:

• Squamous cell carcinoma is a tumor that develops from the epithelium of the cervical canal and the vaginal part of the cervix. Most common uterine cancer. Most often they get sick at the age of 30-34 years. The cause of this type of tumor is a virus. Its appearance is facilitated by: smoking, early onset of sexual activity, frequent change of sexual partners, immunodeficiency states.
  Squamous cell carcinoma may be preceded by the following precancerous conditions:
  • CIN I or moderate dysplasia;
  • CIN II or severe dysplasia;
  • CIN III or carcinoma.
• Glandular squamous cell carcinoma – the formation of foci with squamous differentiation, closely intertwined with glandular structures. Outwardly, it resembles an ulceration formation. Occurs rarely. It has low differentiation (cells are very different from normal), which is why it often acquires an aggressive course.
• Glandular cancer – a tumor affecting the glandular cells of the uterine cavity and cervical canal. It occurs frequently in older women.
• Serous cancer – a tumor, which is a degenerated cells of the epithelial tissue. It has a latent course and is often detected during a routine gynecological examination.
• Adenocarcinoma is a common type of cancer that develops from the secretory epithelium of the mucous membrane of the uterine body and grows either into the uterine cavity (exophytic form) or deep into the lumen of the organ (endophytic form). Happens:
  • highly differentiated;
  • moderately differentiated;
  • low-grade.
• Clear cell adenocarcinoma – large multifaceted epithelial cells that can occur together with cells of non-clear cell adenocarcinomas. Rarely seen.
• Undifferentiated cancer – a tumor condition in which it is impossible to determine the exact type of cancer cells. More dangerous than other types of cancer. It develops faster and is more difficult to treat. The earlier it is detected, the greater the chance of recovery.

Benign tumors

The most common benign tumors of the uterus:

• Cyst is a bladder filled with liquid contents. By itself, the bubble is not dangerous and is rarely large, but it can cause complications in the form of pseudo-erosion on the mucous wall of the uterus or suppuration upon rupture. To avoid complications, it is better to remove the cyst.
• Fibroids – a ball of intertwining smooth muscle fibers of a rounded shape, with a diameter of several millimeters to several centimeters. It is more common in the late reproductive period and before menopause. It is the most common tumor in women. It is a hormone-dependent tumor. It occurs due to improper division of one smooth muscle cell. Treated with medications such as
  tranexamic acid and gonadotropin releasing hormone antagonists. The most effective is surgical removal by laparoscopy, hysteroscopy and hysterectomy.
• Polyp – a tumor, which is an outgrowth from the basal layer of endometrioid cells. It is the body of the tumor on the leg, with the help of which it is attached to the inner wall of the uterus. Occurs against the background of weak immunity and metabolic disorders. It usually occurs after the age of 30.

  Endometrial polyps are removed during hysteroscopy, and their base is scraped off with a curette. The procedure takes place quickly under local anesthesia, after the operation, there may be bloody discharge from the uterine cavity for 10 days.

  Adenomatous polyps are a precancerous condition, so their treatment is different from that of normal polyps. Women over 45 with adenomatous polyps are prescribed complete removal of the uterus.

• Fibroma is a tumor that grows from the muscular layer of the uterus, which is dominated by connective elements. It is a hormone dependent tumor. It grows from a single mutated cell. It is nodular and diffuse. The nodular fibromyoma is clearly defined and distinguishable from other formations, while the boundaries of diffuse fibroids are blurred and it can merge with other formations.

Stages of uterine cancer

• Stage 0 – malignant change in the uterine epithelium without penetration beyond the basement membrane.
• stage 1 – the tumor is within the body of the uterus.
• stage 2 – the tumor has spread to the cervix.
• stage 3 – the tumor metastasizes to the ovary, vagina, pelvic or para-aortic lymph nodes.
• stage 4 – the tumor spreads to the mucous membrane of the large intestine, bladder, to distant organs and lymph nodes.

Treatment

Treatment of uterine cancer consists in the accurate diagnosis of this disease, the correct determination of the type of tumor and, based on the diagnostic data, the choice of the method of treatment – therapy and surgery.

Diagnosis

The following methods can be selected to detect the disease and determine the type of tumor:

• Clinical diagnostics – interview of the patient, gynecological examination and history taking.
• Ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs (ultrasound) is a research method using an ultrasound device that allows you to determine the tumor, study its size and structure, check the condition of the outer, mucous and muscular layer of the uterus, assess the state of blood flow and detect foci in other organs.
• Hysteroscopy – visual examination of the uterus and sampling of biological material from the inner layer in those places where there is a suspicion of a tumor.
• Cytological method – study of the cellular composition of the material obtained as a result of smears during a gynecological examination. According to the cellular composition, it is possible to determine the presence of an inflammatory process, atypical and cancerous cells in the uterus.
• Biopsy and immunohistochemistry – examination of uterine material taken with a colposcope, under a microscope and using immunohistochemistry to determine the type of tumor cells.
• Histological examination – examination of material taken from the uterus under a microscope. The tissue structure, the presence of tumor cells and their differentiation are studied.
• Oncomarker SA-125 – a blood test for the presence of markers that indirectly indicate the spread of the tumor process in the body.
• Fluorescent diagnostics – a method in which photosensitizing substances are introduced into the body that can selectively accumulate in malignant cells. After that, with the help of endoscopic examination of the uterus, the location of the tumors is revealed. The method allows the tumor to be less than 1 millimeter.

After receiving the data collected by various methods, the doctor deciphers the results, evaluates everything as a whole, makes a diagnosis and prescribes treatment.

Therapy

For certain types of tumors, the following may be effective for treatment:

• Hormone therapy – the use of hormones, such as progesterone and others, to suppress certain types of tumors in the early stages. It is more commonly used to treat women who are planning to become pregnant in the future. After hormone therapy, weight gain and other consequences may occur.
• Chemotherapy is the use of chemicals to destroy certain types of tumors. As a rule, it is used after surgery to destroy cancer cells remaining in the body. Therapy is carried out intravenously in cycles. As side effects, it can cause hair loss, disruption of the gastrointestinal tract, and decreased immunity.
• Radiation Therapy is used to destroy cancer cells either alone or in combination with other therapies and surgery. Irradiation of the tumor can be external or internal. External irradiation is done on a large apparatus, which directs rays from the outside to the site of the tumor in the uterus. Internal irradiation is carried out by introducing a cylinder of radioactive material into the vagina for a short time. Radiation therapy can lead to irregular menstruation, narrowing of the vagina, burning, dryness and irritation for a while.

The use of therapies depends on the type of tumor, the stage of development, the patient’s general health, age, and many other factors.

Operation

The main method of treating the disease, by removing the tumor:

• Ordinary abdominal surgery (laparotomy) . To access the tumor and remove it, a large incision is made in the abdomen.
• Endoscopic surgery . The tumor is removed using an endoscopic machine, which is inserted through several small incisions in the anterior abdominal wall.

The method of operation is chosen by the surgeon depending on the condition of the patient.

You can make an appointment for the diagnosis and treatment of a uterine tumor at our L-Med clinic by calling +7 (4872) 49-57-57 or using the online form on the website.

Further development of the situation and prognosis

The prognosis for recovery depends on many factors, such as the patient’s age, tumor type, cancer stage, presence of metastasis, and others. Patients under 50 years of age have a more favorable prognosis with a hormone-dependent variant of cancer and the absence of metastases. The prognosis is worse in women older than 70 years with a type of cancer that is not sensitive to hormones. Detecting and treating cancer at an earlier stage gives a better prognosis. Treatment of endometrial cancer gives better results than sarcoma.