Endometrioid refers to a specific type of cell and tissue structure observed under a microscope, primarily associated with certain cancers. It describes the most common subtype of endometrial cancer, which originates in the lining of the uterus. Endometrioid tumors can also occur in other reproductive organs, such as the ovaries. This article clarifies what endometrioid means, outlining its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
Understanding Endometrioid
The term “endometrioid” describes a histological appearance, meaning the cells and tissue resemble the normal glandular tissue found in the endometrium, the uterus’s inner lining. When cancer cells exhibit this appearance, they are classified as endometrioid carcinoma. This type of cancer is the most frequent subtype of endometrial cancer, accounting for over 80% of cases arising in the uterus.
While most commonly found in the uterus, endometrioid carcinoma can also develop in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, and vagina. Ovarian endometrioid tumors, for instance, make up about 10-20% of malignant ovarian tumors. It is important to distinguish “endometrioid” from “endometriosis,” a benign condition where endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus, as the names can cause confusion. Endometriosis is not cancerous.
Recognizing Symptoms and Diagnosis
The most common symptom of endometrioid carcinoma is abnormal vaginal bleeding, particularly after menopause. This bleeding can manifest as spotting, heavy bleeding, or bleeding between menstrual periods for those who are premenopausal. Other symptoms include pelvic pain, pressure, painful urination, or pain during sexual intercourse, especially in more advanced cases.
Diagnosis begins with a medical history review and a physical examination. Imaging techniques like ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans may be used to visualize the uterus and surrounding areas, helping identify abnormal growths. However, a definitive diagnosis relies on a biopsy, where a tissue sample is examined under a microscope. This can involve an endometrial biopsy, dilation and curettage (D&C), or a surgical biopsy for ovarian cases.
Treatment Options
Treatment for endometrioid carcinoma involves a multi-modal approach, often starting with surgery. For uterine endometrioid cancer, a hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the uterus, is often performed. This procedure may be accompanied by a salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of fallopian tubes and ovaries) and sometimes lymph node dissection to check for cancer spread. The extent of surgery depends on the cancer’s stage and location.
Following surgery, adjuvant therapies may be recommended to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce recurrence risk. Radiation therapy, which uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells, can be administered externally (external beam radiation) or internally (brachytherapy). Chemotherapy, involving medications that kill cancer cells throughout the body, may be used for more advanced stages or if the cancer has spread. Hormone therapy, which targets hormone-sensitive cancer cells, can also be a treatment option, particularly for endometrioid tumors fueled by estrogen.
Outlook and Monitoring
The outlook for endometrioid carcinoma is favorable, especially when diagnosed at an early stage. Many cases, including the endometrioid subtype, are detected early due to symptoms like abnormal vaginal bleeding, which prompts medical attention.
Several factors influence the individual prognosis, including the cancer’s stage and grade, as well as the patient’s overall health. After completing treatment, ongoing monitoring and follow-up care are important. Regular check-ups help detect any potential recurrence promptly, allowing for timely intervention and management.