CONDITIONS
Gynaecological cancer is any cancer of the female reproductive organs, that is, of the ovaries, the cervix and the body of the uterus, the vagina and the vulva. Early diagnosis and properly planned, personalised treatment by a specialised team are the conditions for success.
The five types, their symptoms and their diagnosis
Symptoms vary with the type and the stage. Common signs are bleeding between periods or after the menopause, pelvic pain, unexplained weight loss, lumps or sores on the vulva and frequent urination. Every woman should consult her gynaecologist as soon as she notices any of these.
| Type | Symptoms | Diagnosis |
|---|---|---|
| Ovarian cancer | No symptoms at the early stages. Later, pain in the pelvis, back or abdomen, bloating, loss of appetite, urgent urination, constipation, pain during intercourse. This is why it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. | Ultrasound, CA-125 marker in the blood, biopsy in some cases. |
| Cervical cancer | Irregular bleeding or spotting between periods, heavier periods, persistent pelvic or back pain, vaginal discharge, pain during intercourse. | Papanicolaou cytology (Pap test) and HPV test. Caused mainly by the HPV virus. |
| Endometrial cancer | Abnormal vaginal bleeding, pain when urinating, an enlarged uterus on gynaecological examination, pain during intercourse, weight loss. Often related to hormonal imbalances. | Diagnostic curettage or endometrial biopsy, transvaginal ultrasound. |
| Vaginal cancer | Rare. No symptoms at the early stages. Later, vaginal bleeding, pain in the vagina or abdomen, pain when urinating or during intercourse, bladder and bowel problems. | Clinical examination and biopsy. |
| Vulvar cancer | Rare, more common at older ages. A lump, rash or colour changes, intense itching or pain, bleeding after intercourse or after the menopause. | Clinical examination and biopsy. |
Surgical treatment
At the centre of the treatment plan is usually the surgical removal of the tumour, with the most modern techniques and equipment. The basic operations are hysterectomy, the removal of the uterus and cervix, and total hysterectomy with removal of all the internal genital organs. In endometrial cancer the oncology team may also opt for radical lymph node dissection, to prevent wide spread. Robotic technology increases the precision of movements and minimises injury to healthy tissue, especially when the lymph nodes are also removed.
The advantages of minimally invasive surgery
- Minimal postoperative pain
- Fewer intraoperative and postoperative complications
- Smaller incisions and a better cosmetic result
- Minimal hospital stay and faster recovery
- Excellent oncological results
- Maximum precision and safety in the operating theatre
Treatment by type
The importance of specialisation
The management of gynaecological cancer requires a specialised team. Gynaecological oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and other specialists ensure the best possible care. Specialisation improves the prognosis, but also the quality of life during and after treatment. Women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer can discuss genetic counselling for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
Your care at the 4th Oncology Clinic
Every case is discussed at the Clinic’s tumour board, where medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, radiologists and pathologists jointly design the personalised treatment plan. Our patients have access to new treatments through the Clinical Trials Centre and, where there is a family history, to genetic counselling. Meet our team or contact us for an appointment.
Book an appointment
Appointments: 210 48 09 150, 210 48 09 160
Daily 08:00 to 16:00
oncology.clinic4@gmail.com