Are uterine cancer and endometrial cancer the same?

Written by Li Lin
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 02, 2024
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Uterine cancer is divided into cervical cancer and endometrial cancer. Cervical cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the epithelium and glandular tissue of the cervix, while endometrial cancer is a group of epithelial malignant tumors that occur in the endometrium. The two types of cancer differ due to their different sites of origin. Accordingly, the examination and treatment methods adopted are also not completely the same based on the different sites of origin. However, both cervical and endometrial cancers are primarily treated with surgery, followed by corresponding radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Endometrial cancer leukorrhea symptoms

The main manifestation of endometrial discharge is an increase in the amount of discharge, which can be watery or bloody. Sometimes, it can also appear as pus-blood-like discharge. Another main symptom of endometrial cancer is irregular vaginal bleeding. During an ultrasound, uneven echoes can be seen within the uterine cavity. The patient may also experience pain in the lower abdomen and increased menstrual flow. Therefore, if there are abnormalities in menstruation or unusual vaginal discharge, it is necessary to promptly go to the hospital for an ultrasound and gynecological examinations, and receive treatment based on the results of these tests.

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What are the symptoms of endometrial cancer?

Patients with endometrial cancer mainly experience symptoms in three areas: First, obvious symptoms caused by local tumors in the uterus, such as irregular vaginal bleeding, changes in the menstrual cycle, a sense of fullness and dull pain in the lower abdomen and pelvic area, along with significant discomfort and pain. Second, clinical symptoms caused by metastatic lesions. Endometrial cancer can spread through three pathways, which after dissemination can cause a variety of symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, headache, vomiting, movement disorders, chest tightness, coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Some patients may also experience bone pain. Third, systemic symptoms, which are typically seen in advanced stages of endometrial cancer and commonly include cachexia, fever, and others.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to perform surgery for endometrial cancer

Surgical treatment for endometrial cancer needs to be determined based on the specific stage and type of the cancer, as well as the size of the lesions. If the lesions are small and the cancer is in an early stage, a complete hysterectomy including the removal of both fallopian tubes and ovaries can be performed. Intraoperative pathology assessment of the endometrium is also necessary to determine the specific pathological type. If it is a special type of endometrial cancer, it is also necessary to clear the pelvic lymph nodes. If the endometrial cancer is at a later stage and the lesions are larger, then in addition to the removal of the uterus and both fallopian tubes and ovaries, it is also necessary to clear the lymph nodes around the abdominal aorta in the pelvis.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Early symptoms of endometrial cancer

When endometrial cancer occurs in women, it first manifests as abnormal proliferation of the endometrium, increased endometrial surface area, and increased secretions, which can increase the pressure inside the uterine cavity, leading to lower abdominal pain in women. Most women can tolerate this pain, but it tends to worsen during vigorous activities or sexual intercourse. Vaginal discharge may become watery and increase. Additionally, some women may experience increased menstrual flow or irregular vaginal bleeding. Over time, this can lead to blood loss anemia in women, manifesting as dizziness, fatigue, and changes in appetite.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How is endometrial cancer diagnosed?

In the clinical setting, when endometrial cancer is suspected, further pathological examination is required. Generally, endometrial tissue can be obtained through fractional curettage or hysteroscopic endometrial biopsy. The acquired endometrium is then subject to a pathological examination, observing the morphology of the endometrial cells under a microscope. If cancer cells are detected, a diagnosis of endometrial cancer can be made. Therefore, the confirmation of endometrial cancer in clinical practice must be based on pathological examination.