Endometrial Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and PET-CT

Endometrial Cancer develops in the endometrium, which is the lining of the uterus. This disease can occur in postmenopausal women and young females. Early detection of the symptoms and diagnosis of the disease leads to successful treatment. Different tests, including ultrasound, biopsy, MRI, CT, and PET-CT, can be done to determine the nature of the disease. MolecularDiagnostics and Therapy provide diagnostic imaging services to assess the patient’s condition and make an appropriate decision.

What Is Endometrial Cancer?

Endometrial cancer is caused by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the lining of the uterus. Endometrial carcinoma is the most common type of cancer that usually appears in cells lining the uterus. Cancer may remain confined to the uterus or spread to nearby tissues, lymph nodes, or distant organs, depending on its stage. Endometrial cancer is different from cervical cancer that develops in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. The type of cancer defines the appropriate treatment, and treatment decisions also depend on the stage, grade, histological type, and the patient’s overall health.

What Are the Causes of Endometrial Cancer?

The factors that cause this disease may vary, and it can be triggered by hormone imbalance. For instance, estrogen dominance without the influence of progesterone may result in overgrowth of the endometrium. Obesity, aging, and personal history of cancer are also factors that may affect the development of the disease. PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome) can be another reason for Endometrial Cancer, especially if a female does not ovulate. It is critical to consult a physician in case of suspicion of any disease.

Genetic predisposition is also significant since it may increase the chances of getting cancer. Having a close relative with Endometrial Cancer or colon cancer raises the risk of developing malignancy because of the hereditary syndrome called Lynch. In addition, several other factors may be present, and it is essential to consult a doctor to determine the exact reason.

What Are the Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer?

The most common symptom of Endometrial Cancer is vaginal bleeding, for instance, after menopause, between menstrual periods, or prolonged and heavy menstrual bleeding. Other symptoms include abnormal vaginal discharge that contains blood and pelvic pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse. Weight loss and prolonged pelvic discomfort or pain are additional symptoms of Endometrial Cancer. Vaginal bleeding after menopause may be caused by several diseases, and it is vital to consult a physician to exclude or verify the condition.

How Is Endometrial Cancer Diagnosed?

1. Transvaginal Ultrasound

An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the uterus, and it is advisable to conduct this test if suspicious thickening of the endometrium is detected. Nevertheless, it should be noted that a biopsy is required to identify cancer cells. There are other procedures to determine cancer, for instance, an endometrial biopsy.

2. Endometrial Biopsy

An endometrial biopsy is a diagnostic procedure to remove tissue from the uterus to examine it under a microscope. It is appropriate to conduct this test when there is abnormal bleeding or other symptoms.

3. MRI and CT Scans

An MRI scan is used after a biopsy to identify the extent of cancer spread. A physician may also recommend a CT scan to evaluate abnormal lymph nodes in the abdomen and pelvis.

There is a range of procedures to diagnose endometrial cancer, and biopsies are the only way to confirm it. The selection of tests depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as therapy.

What Is the Role of PET-CT in Endometrial Cancer?

A PET-CT scan combines two imaging methods, namely PET and CT, that visualize abnormal cells throughout the body. The principle of the test is to see how cancer cells absorb the tracer solution that is introduced into the patient’s body. CT scan uses X-rays to obtain clear images of the abdomen and pelvis, whereas PET relies on the specific properties of cancerous cells to track them in the body. PET-CT scan for Endometrial Cancer can be recommended in various cases, for instance, if there is a suspicion of extensive spread of cancerous cells or recurrence.

A PET-CT scan helps assess the nature of the tumor and its spread in the body. It is not required for all patients with endometrial cancer, but it is beneficial in case a physician wants to make sure that cancer cells are not present after initial tests. In addition, it should be considered that the results of a PET-CT scan should be taken into account together with the patient’s symptoms and other tests. For example, inflammation or infection can cause increased results in PET scans, and some tumors may not be malignant. A biopsy is also needed if a doctor suspects that a patient has a tumor.

Conclusion

Endometrial cancer can present with abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause. Diagnosis can be made with an ultrasound and endometrial biopsy. MRI, CT, and PET-CT scans may also be conducted to determine the stage and spread of cancer. Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy offer diagnostic imaging services for cancer patients. Anyone who experiences unexplained vaginal bleeding and pelvic discomfort should consult a physician to rule out this disease.