How is Endometrial Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosing endometrial cancer typically begins with evaluating symptoms and is followed by diagnostic tests such as:
- Endometrial Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken from the inner lining of the uterus to see if cancer cells are present.
- Dilation and curettage (D&C): A procedure in which the cervix is dilated to allow scraping of the lining of the uterus.
- Transvaginal ultrasound: A procedure in which an ultrasound device is inserted into the vagina to provide images of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, and pelvic area.
Endometrial Cancer Staging and Subtypes
Endometrial Cancer Staging
- Stage I: Confined to the uterus
- Stage II: Has spread to the cervix
- Stage III: Has spread beyond the uterus, possibly to nearby lymph nodes or structures
- Stage IV: Has spread to the bladder, rectum, or distant organs
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Endometrial Cancer Cancer Subtypes
The two main types of endometrial cancer include:
- Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma: The most common type, often hormone-driven
- Serous or Clear Cell Carcinoma: More aggressive and less common
Essential Testing
Testing helps identify the stage of endometrial cancer, assess risk, and personalize treatment options.
Testing Methods in Endometrial Cancer
- Endometrial Biopsy: A key diagnostic test for abnormal cells
- Transvaginal Ultrasound: Used to evaluate the endometrial lining
- Hysteroscopy: Allows direct visualization of the uterus
- MRI, CT, or PET Scans: Help determine the extent of cancer spread
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Biomarker Testing in Endometrial Cancer
Helps assess what is happening inside cancer cells beyond what is visible under a microscope by:
- Identifying genetic factors driving abnormal cancer cell growth
- Detecting specific targets on cancer cell surfaces for better treatment options
- Determining unique characteristics of a patient’s cancer to personalize treatment
Common Endometrial Cancer Biomarkers
- Mismatch Repair (MMR) Status: Determines if the cancer is Mismatch Repair Deficient (dMMR) or Mismatch Repair Proficient (pMMR).
- Cancers that are dMMR often respond well to immunotherapy (which uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer).
- HER2 Expression: A protein receptor found on some cancer cells.
- HER2-positive cancers may be treated with targeted therapies.
Related Links
How Does Biomarker Testing Impact Endometrial Cancer Screening and Detection?
Endometrial Cancer Biomarkers | Impact on Prognosis and Treatment
Endometrial Cancer Diagnosis & Testing Programs
Will help you understand the importance of essential biomarker testing before key decisions are made in your care—including following a reoccurrence.
Topics:
- Understanding Testing in Endometrial Cancer
- Endometrial Cancer Treatment Decisions
- INSIST! Endometrial Cancer Resources
