There are many risk factors for developing endometriosis cancer. The disease is caused by genetic changes in cells, and occurs when they grow out of control rather than dying. While there are many factors that increase the risk of developing this disease, early detection is key. If you notice a discharge, consult a doctor. The doctor will feel the cervix, uterus, labia, and vagina. If the discharge is unusual, it’s time to see your doctor.
Surgical treatment for this condition is another option. Patients may undergo a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes), radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. Surgery can be combined with hormone therapy or targeted therapy. However, this may have serious side effects. In some cases, chemotherapy may not be appropriate. In such cases, the doctor may recommend hormonal treatments or surgery to relieve symptoms.
Treatment for endometriosis cancer is available to help the affected woman reduce the risk of developing this disease. Although surgery is not a cure, hormonal therapies such as progestins and estrogens can help. In some cases, hormonal treatments such as birth control pills can help control the levels of hormones in the body, which cause endometrial tissue buildup. The side effects of these treatments vary, but doctors can recommend them to patients if they are undergoing treatment for endometriosis.
Treatment for endometriosis cancer in women depends on the type of cancer. Type 1 endometrial cancer, which is noninvasive and does not spread very quickly, is the most common type. It can develop from a condition known as atypical hyperplasia, in which too many cells grow in the endometrium. Treatment for type 1 endometrial cancer is relatively good. Approximately 20% of cases will develop into a type 2 form of endometriosis cancer. However, these cancers may spread outside the uterus. Experts do not think that too much estrogen is the primary cause of type 2 endometriosis cancer.
When cancer reaches stage II or stage III, it has spread to the connective tissues of the cervix. The ovary, fallopian tubes, and ligaments surrounding the uterus are all affected. In the case of stage IIIB, the cancer has spread to the paraphernium, the connective tissue surrounding the uterus. Treatment for this type of cancer is often aimed at halting its progression.
Pregnancy reduces the risk of developing endometrial cancer because it alters the hormonal balance. However, other risks are related to hormonal imbalances, such as irregular menstrual cycles and infertility. After menopause, fat tissues tend to produce higher levels of estrogen, increasing the risk of developing endometrial cancer. Higher BMI and obesity increases the risk of endometrial cancer.
Preventing endometriosis cancer is very important. A faulty diagnosis can lead to a higher risk for cancer. A woman with simple hyperplasia may be cured without treatment. A diagnosis is made through pelvic exam, ultrasound, or laparoscopy. Eventually, the condition can spread to the pelvic area and cause infertility. A woman with a history of endometriosis should seek treatment.
