Cervical Cancer Management and Epidemiology
154 Questions
2 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the relative incidence of cervical cancer compared to breast cancer on a global scale?

Cervical cancer is the second most common female malignancy after breast cancer.

By what percentage did the incidence rates of cervical cancer decrease after the introduction of the NHS Cervical Screening Programme?

Incidence rates decreased by 49%.

What was the cervical cancer mortality rate in the UK in 2010-2012 compared to 40 years earlier?

Mortality rates were 71% lower than they were in 1971-1973.

What is one key recommendation for managing cervical cancer cases in the UK?

<p>Cases should be managed in a recognised cancer centre.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many new cases of cervical cancer were diagnosed in the UK in 2013?

<p>3207 new cases were diagnosed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the incidence rate of cervical cancer in the UK in 2002-2004?

<p>The incidence rate was 8.4 per 100,000 women.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the learning outcomes related to cervical cancer management in this tutorial?

<p>Identify patients with risk factors for cervical cancer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of study might provide insights into the epidemiology of HPV infection and cervical cancer?

<p>A natural history study would provide insights.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the prognosis for older patients at all stages of cervical cancer?

<p>Older patients have a poorer prognosis.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Is chemoradiotherapy the treatment of choice for stage IIIB cervical cancer?

<p>Yes, it is the treatment of choice.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended treatment for stage IA cervical cancer?

<p>Stage IA disease can be treated by simple hysterectomy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Is bilateral oophorectomy necessary for a young woman with stage Ib cervical cancer?

<p>No, bilateral oophorectomy is not necessary.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a recognized complication of radical surgery for cervical cancer?

<p>Lymphoedema is a recognized complication.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the overall 5-year survival rate for cervical cancer?

<p>The overall 5-year survival rate is 68%.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How much did the cervical screening program reduce the incidence of cervical cancer in the UK?

<p>The incidence fell by 42%.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does an anterior exenteration involve?

<p>It involves the removal of the bladder, not the rectum.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which sexually transmitted disease is predominantly associated with cervical cancer?

<p>Human papillomavirus (HPV) is predominantly associated.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of HPV testing in cervical screening?

<p>HPV testing helps triage women with low-grade and borderline smears.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the most oncogenic types of human papillomavirus associated with cervical cancer?

<p>HPV 16 and 18 are the most oncogenic types.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of HPV typing in screening programs?

<p>HPV typing improves detection of CIN2 and reduces false positives.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one key factor that has led to substantial improvements in cervical cancer survival rates in the UK?

<p>Chemoradiotherapy has led to substantial improvements in survival rates.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the common percentage of squamous lesions among cervical cancer tumors?

<p>About 70% of cervical tumors are squamous lesions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the effect of vaccine licensing in 2007 on cervical cancer prevention?

<p>It allowed for the primary prevention of most cervical cancers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the two most common high-risk HPV types associated with cervical cancer?

<p>HPV-16 and HPV-18 are the most common high-risk types.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of fertility preserving surgery in the context of cervical cancer?

<p>The goal is to treat cancer while preserving the patient's fertility.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does early age of first sexual intercourse relate to cervical cancer risk?

<p>It is considered an important risk factor for cervical cancer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of cervical cancers is HPV found in?

<p>HPV is found in over 95% of cervical cancers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does regular screening play in cervical cancer prevention?

<p>Regular 3-yearly smears help significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name one of the rare tumor types that can occur in the cervix besides squamous lesions and adenocarcinomas.

<p>Lymphomas are one of the rare tumor types.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of age as a prognostic factor in cervical cancer?

<p>Age is an important prognostic factor, influencing treatment outcomes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is chest x-ray included in the staging of cervical cancer?

<p>A chest x-ray is included to assess the risk of pulmonary metastases.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the standard method for assessing tumor volume in stage IA–IIB cervical carcinomas?

<p>Clinical examination and imaging are standard methods for assessing tumor volume.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does smoking correlate with cervical cancer progression?

<p>Cigarette smoking is positively correlated with progression of preinvasive disease.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of cervical cancer patients experience symptoms, and how does this relate to regular screenings?

<p>Many cervical cancer patients may be asymptomatic, increasing the importance of regular screenings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the clinical importance of MRI scans in the context of cervical cancer staging?

<p>MRI scans provide greater accuracy in assessing the disease extent pre-operatively.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the two main components of treatment for early-stage cervical cancer?

<p>Radical surgery and chemoradiotherapy are the primary treatment options.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a punch biopsy reveal in cases with high-grade cervical glandular intraepithelial neoplasia?

<p>It reveals high-grade cervical glandular intraepithelial neoplasia and adenocarcinoma.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What stage corresponds to a tumor extending to the upper vagina but not to the pelvic side wall?

<p>Stage IIB carcinoma of the cervix.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a typical feature of Stage IIIA carcinoma of the cervix?

<p>The tumor demonstrates extension into the upper vagina.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the presence of a 7-cm tumor on the ectocervix with vaginal deposits indicate?

<p>It indicates Stage IIIB carcinoma of the cervix.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a cancer diagnosis of poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma and a fixed pelvic tumor suggest?

<p>It suggests advanced disease, likely Stage IVB carcinoma of the cervix.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended treatment for women diagnosed with Stage IIA or less cervical cancer?

<p>Surgery or radical chemoradiotherapy may be administered with curative intent.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do the multidisciplinary teams play in cervical cancer treatment decisions?

<p>They ensure that treatment decisions consider various expert opinions and patient wishes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In stage IA1 cervical cancer, what is the management approach if margins are clear of disease?

<p>No further treatment is necessary, but careful follow-up is essential.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is performed if the excision margins are involved in stage IA1 cervical cancer?

<p>Further local excision should be performed or a simple hysterectomy may be considered.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What alternative treatment may be considered for medically unfit patients with stage IA2 cervical cancer?

<p>Radical radiotherapy is an alternative treatment option.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of a normal chest X-ray (CXR) in cervical cancer staging?

<p>A normal CXR indicates that there are no pulmonary metastases.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does an MRI scan showing pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenopathy suggest?

<p>It suggests advanced cervical cancer, possibly Stage IIIB or higher.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the incidence of adenocarcinoma among cervical cancer cases?

<p>The incidence of adenocarcinoma is approximately 20%.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a large tumor replacing both the cervix and upper vagina?

<p>It indicates a likely Stage IVA carcinoma of the cervix.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the two main types of HPV vaccines mentioned and what types of HPV do they target?

<p>The two vaccines are Cervarix® targeting HPV-16 and HPV-18, and Gardasil® targeting HPV-6, HPV-11, HPV-16, and HPV-18.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is HPV vaccination primarily targeted at young girls before sexual debut?

<p>Vaccination is targeted at young girls because it is most effective when administered before they become sexually active.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many doses of the HPV vaccine are required, and what is the timing of those doses?

<p>Three doses of the HPV vaccine are required, administered at 0, 2, and 6 months.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the expected benefits of the HPV vaccines in relation to cervical cancer?

<p>The vaccines are expected to reduce the incidence of high-grade CIN, which may lead to a decrease in cervical carcinoma rates over time.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of cervical screening given the introduction of HPV vaccination?

<p>Cervical screening will continue to play an important role, especially since HPV vaccination may not benefit women already exposed to the virus.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the concerns regarding the HPV vaccination program, especially in developing countries?

<p>Concerns include social taboos and the logistical challenges of vaccination, as well as the high rates of cervical cancer in these regions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is ‘herd immunity’ in the context of HPV vaccination?

<p>Herd immunity refers to the indirect protection from HPV infection that occurs when a significant portion of the population is vaccinated.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Gardasil® differ from Cervarix® in terms of HPV coverage?

<p>Gardasil® provides coverage for HPV types 6 and 11 in addition to 16 and 18, targeting both cervical cancer and genital warts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What adverse effects have been noted from the HPV vaccines, if any?

<p>The HPV vaccines have an excellent safety record, primarily showing transient injection site reactions with no evidence of adverse effects on chronic disorders.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV types not included in the available vaccines?

<p>Approximately 30% of cervical cancer cases are due to other HPV subtypes not targeted by the vaccines.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Since when has the UK vaccination program for HPV been in place and what age group does it target?

<p>The UK vaccination program has been in place since September 2008 and targets girls aged 12–13 years.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe one major controversy surrounding the HPV vaccination effort.

<p>Some opponents argue that HPV vaccination may encourage early sexual activity, with concerns raised by conservative and religious groups.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one possible future strategy for cervical screening mentioned in the text?

<p>One future strategy could include HPV testing, reserving cytology for those who test HPV-positive.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected duration of immune response following HPV vaccination?

<p>Current data suggests that immune responses persist through 5 years after vaccination.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary features that may warrant a referral after an abnormal cervical smear?

<p>Features of invasive disease such as atypical blood vessels may warrant a referral.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might a recent negative smear not exclude the possibility of cervical malignancy?

<p>A necrotic tumor may not exfoliate abnormal cells, leading to a false negative result.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of clinical staging in the management of cervical cancer?

<p>Accurate clinical staging is essential for determining the appropriate management of cervical cancer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which examinations are recommended by FIGO for staging cervical cancer?

<p>Colposcopy, examination under anesthesia (EUA), and endocervical curettage are among the recommended examinations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of errors in clinical staging were reported by the Gynecologic Oncology Group for stage IB to IVA tumors?

<p>Errors in clinical staging were reported at 24% for stage IB and up to 67% for stage IVA tumors.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What technological advancement has shown to be superior for evaluating cervical tumors compared to clinical examination?

<p>MRI has been shown to be superior to computed tomography and clinical examination for evaluating cervical tumors.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximal depth of invasion allowed for stage IA1 cervical carcinoma?

<p>The maximum depth of invasion for stage IA1 is ≤3 mm.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Distinguish between stage IB1 and stage IB2 cervical carcinoma based on tumor size.

<p>Stage IB1 involves lesions ≤4 cm, while stage IB2 involves lesions &gt;4 cm in greatest dimension.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does stage III cervical carcinoma indicate regarding tumor extension?

<p>Stage III indicates that the tumor extends to the pelvic wall and/or the lower third of the vagina.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances is surgical staging performed for cervical cancer?

<p>Surgical staging is usually performed as part of a clinical trial due to uncertainty in routine practices.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In staging cervical cancer, what does the involvement of hydronephrosis or a non-functioning kidney signify?

<p>It indicates stage III or stage IV cervical cancer, depending on other conditions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which organization adapted the staging guidelines for carcinoma of the cervix?

<p>The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) adapted the staging guidelines.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key characteristic that defines stage IV cervical carcinoma?

<p>Stage IV is defined by carcinoma that has extended beyond the true pelvis or involved other organs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do vascular or lymphatic space involvements play in cervical cancer staging?

<p>Involvement of vascular or lymphatic spaces does not change the stage allotment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should the depth of invasion be reported during cervical cancer staging?

<p>The depth of invasion should be reported in millimeters, regardless of classification.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which treatment is generally preferred for medically fit younger patients diagnosed with stage IB or IIA cervical cancer?

<p>Radical hysterectomy and bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy are generally preferred.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical chemotherapy agent used alongside radiotherapy for treating cervical cancer in the UK?

<p>Cisplatin is the chemotherapy agent typically used.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What surgical procedure may be offered for women with early-stage tumours desiring to retain fertility?

<p>A radical trachelectomy may be offered.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk associated with radical surgery for cervical cancer?

<p>Serious complications such as haemorrhage and damage to adjacent organs are significant risks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How long is a typical course of radical chemoradiotherapy for cervical cancer?

<p>A typical course lasts for 5 weeks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the risk of long-term lymphoedema after cervical cancer surgery?

<p>The risk of lymphoedema is approximately 3%.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the cure rate for stage IIB to IVA cervical cancer when treated with concurrent cisplatin-based chemotherapy and radiotherapy?

<p>The cure rate ranges from 20% to 50%.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common side effect of radiotherapy for cervical cancer?

<p>Cystitis is a common side effect.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What impacts the decision to consider adjuvant pelvic radiotherapy after radical surgery?

<p>Close surgical margins or involvement of lymph nodes impacts this decision.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario might pelvic exenteration be considered for a cervical cancer patient?

<p>Pelvic exenteration may be considered for medically fit patients with advanced central pelvic disease.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should patients be counselled about when considering a radical trachelectomy?

<p>Patients should be informed about the implications for future pregnancies and risks of miscarriage.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What serious long-term risk is associated with the use of radiotherapy in younger cervical cancer patients?

<p>There is a risk of radiation-induced menopause.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of imaging is aimed to minimize the need for combined therapy of surgery and radiotherapy?

<p>Preoperative imaging is used to minimize the need.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What approach is generally taken for patients with distant metastases from cervical cancer?

<p>Palliative care focusing on symptom control is generally the approach.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the preferred imaging technique to assess the parametrium and lymph nodes in cervical cancer?

<p>Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred technique.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical cure rate for surgery compared to chemoradiotherapy in cervical cancer treatment?

<p>The cure rates for surgery and chemoradiotherapy are similar.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the general follow-up protocol for patients treated for cervical cancer?

<p>Follow-up is maintained for at least 5 years with symptomatic enquiries and clinical examinations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended treatment for a patient with a central recurrence of cervical cancer with no pelvic lymphadenopathy?

<p>Total pelvic exenteration.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of pelvic lymphadenopathy in determining treatment options for cervical cancer?

<p>Pelvic lymphadenopathy indicates a higher disease stage, potentially limiting curative options.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant treatment option for central pelvic recurrence after chemoradiotherapy?

<p>An exenterative procedure may be possible in carefully selected patients.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the incidence of cervical cancer change in relation to pregnancy?

<p>Cervical cancer in pregnancy is rare and has similar survival rates to non-pregnant cases.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Identify one treatment option for patients with early parametrial extension of cervical cancer.

<p>Radical hysterectomy (+/-BSO) and pelvic lymphadenectomy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of radical chemoradiotherapy in cervical cancer treatment?

<p>It serves as a primary treatment approach in patients who are not candidates for surgery.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What signifies a poor prognostic factor in cervical cancer?

<p>The presence of lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI).</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does tumor size affect the 5-year survival rate in cervical cancer patients?

<p>Larger tumors are associated with lower survival rates.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which treatment is indicated for a multiparous patient with a high-grade cervical glandular smear showing adenocarcinoma?

<p>No further treatment can be considered, depending on follow-up results.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the survival rate for stage II cervical cancer at 5 years?

<p>47%.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might a patient with a 1.8-cm tumor be considered for radical trachelectomy?

<p>To preserve fertility in young, nulliparous patients.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might frequent recurrences within the first three years after treatment indicate?

<p>Higher likelihood of aggressive disease or inadequate initial treatment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary consideration when managing recurrent cervical cancer?

<p>Assessment of the previous treatment and extent of the recurrence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain the significance of an MRI scan in the context of cervical cancer treatment.

<p>MRI scans help assess the extent of the disease and guide treatment decisions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what situation is palliative care primarily indicated for cervical cancer patients?

<p>When the cancer has progressed beyond the possibility of curative treatments.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are commonly used methods to evaluate for the presence of distant metastases in cervical cancer?

<p>PET-CT scans and imaging under anaesthesia.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common surgical procedure used for recurrent cervical cancer?

<p>Total pelvic exenteration.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of radical trachelectomy in cervical cancer treatment?

<p>It allows women to retain their fertility.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what type of cases might palliative radiotherapy be considered for cervical cancer patients?

<p>Widespread recurrence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name one surgical route through which radical trachelectomy can be performed.

<p>Vaginal or trans-abdominal.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one factor that makes managing cervical cancer during pregnancy particularly challenging?

<p>Fetal viability issues.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What imaging technique is considered safe for evaluating cervical cancer during pregnancy?

<p>MRI.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be the course of action if cervical cancer is diagnosed before 20 weeks of pregnancy?

<p>Treatment for cervical cancer should proceed without delay.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might increase the risk of hemorrhage when delivering a pregnant patient with advanced cervical cancer?

<p>Attempting vaginal delivery.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What trial compares radical hysterectomy versus simple hysterectomy for low-risk early-stage cervical cancer?

<p>NCIC-CTG SHAPE-CX-5 trial.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant complication of total pelvic exenteration surgery?

<p>High morbidity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should occur if cervical cancer is confirmed during pregnancy?

<p>A biopsy should be taken under general anesthesia.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of surgery might be suggested for larger cervical lesions before fertility-preserving surgery?

<p>Neoadjuvant chemotherapy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one outcome associated with laparoscopic radical trachelectomy?

<p>Good obstetrical and oncologic outcomes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one method of preserving fertility for women with early-stage cervical cancer?

<p>Simple trachelectomy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes an effective management plan for a woman diagnosed with CIN3 and early invasive squamous cell carcinoma?

<p>A cone biopsy should be performed to ensure complete excision of abnormal tissue and obtain a specimen for pathology.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the stage of invasive squamous cell carcinoma for a patient with a maximal horizontal diameter of 7 mm and depth of 4 mm?

<p>The stage is IA2 squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be the focus during biopsy for large necrotic tumors?

<p>Biopsy should be taken from the edge of the tumor to ensure viable tumor cells are sampled.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the recommended follow-up strategies for a patient with stage IA2 squamous cell carcinoma if she desires to maintain fertility?

<p>Close colposcopic and cytological follow-up are required for at least 5 years without further local treatment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are some pregnancy-related complications associated with a cone biopsy?

<p>Cervical weakness leading to second-trimester miscarriage and increased risk of caesarean section during labor.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What blood tests should be performed in advanced cervical cancer to assess renal function?

<p>A full blood count, serum urea, and creatinine estimation should be performed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is an ultrasound preferred for assessing hydronephrosis in advanced cervical cancer?

<p>An ultrasound can be arranged quickly and provides good imaging of hydronephrosis and ureter dilatation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of cervical cancer treatment, what are the main disadvantages of surgical intervention?

<p>Surgical disadvantages include risks of hemorrhage, damage to nearby organs, and potential need for subsequent radiotherapy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the best imaging method to determine the extent of cervical cancer invasion?

<p>MRI is the best imaging method for assessing the extent of the tumor and adjacent structure invasion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What key advantages can chemoradiotherapy offer as a treatment option for cervical cancer?

<p>Chemoradiotherapy has a low immediate risk and avoids the need for major surgery.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What investigations are crucial for a patient with a large fungating carcinoma of the cervix?

<p>A punch biopsy should be performed to confirm the diagnosis of cancer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of histology showing large-cell non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma?

<p>It confirms the presence of a specific type of cervical cancer that requires targeted treatment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What immediate treatment step is suggested for the patient with renal impairment?

<p>The patient should be referred for insertion of nephrostomy tubes to alleviate renal dysfunction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is regular colposcopic follow-up important after treatment for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia?

<p>It helps in early detection of any recurrence or progression of disease.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of obtaining a disease-free margin during a cone biopsy?

<p>A disease-free margin indicates that the cancerous tissue has been effectively removed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What treatment regimen is typically followed for stage IIIB cervical cancer?

<p>The treatment usually involves chemoradiotherapy, combining weekly cisplatin and external beam radiotherapy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should the patient be informed about her diagnosis and treatment options?

<p>The patient should be informed about the extent of her disease, treatment details, and expected outcomes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary potential long-term complications of radical surgery for cervical cancer?

<p>Long-term complications may include bowel and bladder problems, including the risk of fistula formation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason blood transfusions might be necessary for this patient?

<p>Blood transfusions are necessary to address the patient's anemia, which may worsen with chemotherapy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is a simple hysterectomy considered in cases of stage IA2 squamous cell carcinoma?

<p>A simple hysterectomy is a treatment option if there are other indications and if the patient prefers not to preserve fertility.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom suggesting the presence of cervical cancer in older women?

<p>Blood-stained vaginal discharge is a common symptom associated with cervical cancer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What symptom led to the emergency presentation of the 32-year-old woman?

<p>The woman presented with vaginal bleeding, indicating potential advanced disease.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What diagnostic step is indicated when there is suspicion of advanced cervical cancer?

<p>An examination under anesthesia and subsequent biopsy is necessary for diagnostic confirmation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What considerations should be made for a patient with a BMI of 34 undergoing cervical cancer treatment?

<p>Higher BMI increases surgical risks and can affect treatment decisions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an important aspect of patient counseling for those beginning chemoradiotherapy?

<p>Patients should be informed about potential side effects, including nausea and long-term bowel issues.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might a cervical biopsy be indicated despite the presence of ectropion?

<p>A cervical biopsy is indicated to rule out any malignancy despite the benign nature of cervical ectropion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What reassurances can be provided concerning the risk of cancer in the younger patient presenting with ectropion?

<p>Reassurance can be provided that cervical ectropion is common and does not indicate cancer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for conducting chest x-rays in cervical cancer management?

<p>Chest x-rays are performed to check for pleural effusion or evidence of lung metastases.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cervical Cancer Overview

  • Cervical cancer is the second most common female malignancy globally, after breast cancer, and the third most common gynaecological malignancy in the UK, following ovarian and endometrial cancer.
  • Significant reductions in incidence and mortality have occurred since the NHS Cervical Screening Programme began in 1988.
  • Incidence rates decreased by 49% from 1985-1987 (16.3 per 100,000 women) to 2002-2004 (8.4 per 100,000 women), and have remained stable.
  • Mortality rates in 2010-2012 were 71% lower than in 1971-1973.
  • European age-standardised mortality rates decreased by 21% between 2001-2003 and 2010-2012.
  • Despite improvements, there were 919 deaths and 3207 new cases in the UK in 2012 and 2013, respectively.
  • Management should occur in recognized cancer centers for optimal multidisciplinary care.

Risk Factors

  • High-risk HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infections, particularly HPV-16 and HPV-18, are present in over 95% of cervical cancers. Other subtypes, such as HPV-31, -33, and -35, are also implicated.
  • Early onset of sexual activity and multiple sexual partners are major risk factors.
  • Low socioeconomic status is also linked to higher risk.
  • Smoking is a risk factor, correlating with preinvasive disease and cervical cancer development.
  • Oral contraceptive pill use is a contributing factor.
  • Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are associated with risk, particularly HPV.
  • Immunocompromised states (including HIV) increase vulnerability.

Screening and Diagnosis

  • Regular cervical smears (Pap smears) are crucial for early detection. Women with regular 3-yearly smears rarely develop cervical cancer.
  • Atypical blood vessel patterns on colposcopy can indicate invasive disease, even with a recent negative smear.
  • 70% of cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, with adenocarcinomas making up approximately 20%.
  • HPV typing is now integrated into the NHS Cervical Screening Programme to triage women with low-grade or borderline smears. This avoids unnecessary interventions.
  • HPV testing is also used as a 'Test of Cure' for women treated for CIN (Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia).

Staging

  • Staging is largely clinical (e.g., examination under anaesthetic, colposcopy), using the FIGO system, rather than strictly surgical.
  • Clinical staging is less accurate, potentially over- or understaging.
  • MRI is often used in addition to clinical examinations, particularly for determining extent of disease.
  • Surgical staging (often in research protocols) is the most accurate method.
  • There are distinct stages (I, II, III, IV) with subcategories based on tumour size, spread, and involvement of surrounding tissues and organs.

Treatment

  • Treatment options include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, depending on stage, age, and patient characteristics.
  • Multidisciplinary team meetings inform treatment decisions.
  • For earlier stages (I, IIA), surgery or radical chemoradiotherapy are potential options with similar cure rates. Surgery is generally preferred for younger, healthier patients due to potentially lower long-term complications.
  • Chemoradiotherapy is the preferred treatment for more advanced stages (IIB-IV), offering palliative or curative treatment options.
  • Specific treatments can vary by stage: cone biopsy/LLETZ, simple hysterectomy, radical hysterectomy, trachelectomy, radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy, and exenteration.

Prognosis

  • Overall 5-year survival rates are approximately 60%, but vary significantly with stage (higher for earlier stages).
  • Tumour size and lymph node involvement are crucial prognostic factors.

Recurrent Disease

  • Management of recurrent disease is challenging, guided by previous treatment and recurrence site.
  • MRI, examination under anaesthetic, and PET-CT are used for assessing recurrence.
  • Treatment modalities for recurrent disease may include radiotherapy, with or without chemotherapy, and exenterations.
  • Exenterations (anterior, posterior, total) are used for extensive recurrent disease, though carrying higher morbidity.

Fertility Preservation

  • Radical trachelectomy is an option for women with less advanced disease and who want to preserve fertility.
  • The procedure involves removing the cervix while retaining the uterus. Variations, such as simple trachelectomy, are being considered for carefully selected patients.
  • Management considers factors such as disease stage, patient age and coexisting medical problems.

Cervical Cancer in Pregnancy

  • Rare but necessitates careful, multidisciplinary management to balance risk to both mother and fetus.
  • Decisions about treatment timing consider fetal viability, considering when possible surgery or radiotherapy has minimal adverse pregnancy effects.
  • Management strategies often involve delaying treatment until later pregnancy stages for fetal maturity, when necessary, with potential caesarean section allowing for early interventive therapy.

Case Studies (Summary):

  • Case studies detail clinical presentations, investigations, and management decisions for various stages of cervical cancer. Key elements of the cases focus on the need for prompt diagnosis, staging, and multidisciplinary treatment decisions to achieve optimal outcomes.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

Description

This quiz explores important aspects of cervical cancer including its global incidence compared to breast cancer, the impact of the NHS Cervical Screening Programme, and treatment protocols. Test your knowledge on statistics, recommendations, and insights related to cervical cancer management in the UK.

More Like This

Cervical Cancer and HPV
20 questions
Cervical Cancer: Diagnosis and Treatment
6 questions
Cervical and Uterine Cancer Overview
48 questions
Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Browser