Cervical cancer: pathology, symptoms, and treatment options

Cervical Cancer

What it is

Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix. Cancer begins when a body's cells start growing and multiplying out of control. Any cells within a body can become cancerous with potential to spread to other parts of the body. Originating in the lining of the cervix or the womb, another name for this area is the uterine cervix. It connects the uterus to the vagina. Most occurrences of pathology start out in what is called the 'transformation zone' that have two cell types, glandular and squamous cells. These cells first develop precancerous changes that then manifest into dysplasia and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). It takes years for these changes to lead to cancer, however some cases have shown these changes taking place in as little as less than twelve months. There are several types of cervical cancer. The most common is squamous cell carcinomas followed by adenocarcinomas. The less common are mixed caricinomas/adenosquamous carcinomas.

Explain Signs & Symptoms

The woman's abdomen may feel abnormal and myalgia may present in the anterior side. Women may experience vaginal discharge colored with blood outside of menstruation and irregular bleeding that may be tested by an endocrinologist, especially if bleeding occurs after menopause. Advanced symptoms of cervical cancer may include: a swollen leg, unliterally or bilaterally, weight loss, fatigue, pelvic/back pain, and trouble defecation/urinating. Anemia can be a side effect of cervical cancer along with dyspepsia.

A gynecologist may perform blood tests and a pap smear and if the test results come back positive, the doctor may choose to identify whether there is cancer present by performing a biopsy, performing an excision to identify dermal adnexal differentiation. If cancer is detected some preventative measures may be taken. These measures ensure cancer does not spread to other areas of the body. It may also allow for a higher chance of remission for patients.

Cause of disease

Family history of cervical cancer may mean a woman may have a genetic predisposition to developing the disease. Another potential cause of cervical cancer is Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. While HPV can clear in some women, others may experience chronic infection that can lead to certain cancers, one of them being cervical cancer. Lifestyle choices can and do play a role in increasing risk for this kind of cancer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cervical cancer affects many women. This kind of cancer originates in the cervix. Pap smears allow gynecologists to detect cancer cells in the cervix which can lead to treatment and preventative methods. Pre-cancer cells that may lead to cervical cancer can be treated but may manifest into cervical cancer in as a little as less than twelve months. There are treatments available for cervical cancer with a hysterectomy being the most common method along with chemotherapy and radiation. An unhealthy lifestyle is a contraindication for recovery and may pose an increased risk of developing