Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer

Condition Basics

What is endometrial cancer?

Endometrial cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the lining of the uterus, Opens dialog. The lining is called the endometrium. Endometrial cancer is also called cancer of the uterus, or uterine cancer.

Endometrial cancer usually occurs in women older than 50. The good news is that it is usually cured when it is found early. And most of the time, the cancer is found in its earliest stage, before it has spread outside the uterus.

What causes it?

The most common cause of endometrial cancer is having too much of the hormone estrogen, Opens dialog compared to the hormone progesterone, Opens dialog in the body. This imbalance causes the lining of the uterus to get thicker and thicker. If the lining builds up and stays that way, then cancer cells can start to grow.

What are the symptoms?

Abnormal or unexpected bleeding from the vagina is the most common symptom of endometrial cancer. Symptoms of more advanced endometrial cancer include pain or a lump in the pelvic area and weight loss.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and do a physical exam. This will include a pelvic exam. Endometrial cancer is usually diagnosed with a biopsy. In this test, the doctor removes a small sample of the lining of the uterus to look for cancer cells.

How is endometrial cancer treated?

Treatment for endometrial cancer is based on the stage, Opens dialog of the cancer and other things, such as your overall health. The main treatment is surgery to remove the uterus. Other treatment options may include radiation therapy, Opens dialog, chemotherapy, Opens dialog, hormone therapy, Opens dialog, targeted therapy, Opens dialog, and immunotherapy, Opens dialog.

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Current as of: October 25, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.