Cervical Cancer Symptoms, Diagnoses & Treatment

1. Dr. Seema Singh SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST Cervical Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnoses & Treatment

2. What is a Cervical Cancer Cervical cancer, known as cancer of the cervix, initiates in the surface cells of the cervix. It develops when cervical cells undergo changes, becoming precancerous. Not all precancerous cells progress to cancer, yet detecting and addressing these abnormal cells beforehand is crucial in preventing the onset of cervical cancer.

3. Types of Cervical Cancer Cervical cancer primarily exists in two main types: squamous cell carcinomas and adenocarcinomas. Squamous cell carcinomas represent around 80% to 90% of cervical cancers, while adenocarcinomas make up approximately 10% to 20% of cases.

4. Symptoms and Causes Detecting early stages of cervical cancer is challenging as they typically don’t present noticeable symptoms. The development of initial signs may take years. Screening tests for abnormal cervical cells serve as the most effective method for cervical cancer prevention.

5. Symptoms of stage 1 cervical cancer can include: • Watery or bloody vaginal discharge, potentially heavy and with an unpleasant odor. • Vaginal bleeding post-intercourse, between menstrual cycles, or after menopause. • Longer and heavier menstrual periods than usual. • If the cancer spreads to nearby tissues or organs, additional symptoms might appear: • Painful or challenging urination, possibly with blood in the urine. • Diarrhea, rectal pain, or bleeding during bowel movements. • Fatigue, weight loss, decreased appetite, and a general feeling of being unwell.

6. Treatment Options for Cervical Cancer Cervical cancer treatment typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, often led by a gynaecologic oncologist specializing in female reproductive cancers. The treatment course is determined based on various factors such as the cancer’s stage, the patient’s overall health, age, and fertility desires. There are several primary treatment modalities for cervical cancer:

7. Treatment Options for Cervical Cancer • Radiation Therapy • External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) uses high-energy radiation externally to target cancer cells. Brachytherapy involves placing radiation sources near or inside the cervix to treat the cancer. • Chemotherapy • Drugs administered intravenously or orally are used to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Different drugs or combinations are employed in cycles, the schedule of which varies based on the specific treatment plan.

8. Surgery • Various surgical approaches are utilized, depending on the cancer’s stage and extent. These may include: • Laser surgery:Employing a laser to remove cancer cells. • Cryosurgery: Freezing and eliminating cancer cells. • Cone biopsy:Removal of a cone-shaped piece of cervical tissue. • Hysterectomy:Removal of the uterus, with variations like simple or radical hysterectomy. • Trachelectomy:Removal of the cervix and the upper part of the vagina without eliminating the uterus. • Pelvic exenteration: An extensive surgery removing the bladder, vagina, rectum, and adjacent areas affected by cancer. • 1. Targeted Therapy • Targeted drugs focus on specific proteins controlling cancer cell growth and spreading, aiming to destroy these cells more selectively. • 2. Immunotherapy • Medications that stimulate the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. This approach can counteract signals emitted by cancer cells to avoid the immune system’s detection.

9. Dr. Seema Singh • MS, MCh Surgical Oncology ( AIIMS) • YASHODA SUPER SPECIALITY HOSPITAL Kaushambi Ghaziabad • www.oncologistdrseemasingh.com Thank You • +91-9911347475