Endometrial cancer
Endometrial cancer care at Thangam cancer center
Endometrial cancer, also known as uterine cancer, begins in the inner lining of the uterus called the endometrium. It is one of the most common gynecological cancers, particularly affecting women after menopause. With timely diagnosis and targeted treatment, endometrial cancer has high survival rates—especially when caught in its early stages.
At Thangam Hospital, we offer comprehensive diagnosis, surgical expertise, and personalized treatment plans for women with endometrial cancer. Our multidisciplinary team of gynecologic oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and fertility specialists provide holistic care at every stage.
What Is Endometrial Cancer?
The uterus is a hollow, pear-shaped organ in the female pelvis that supports fetal development during pregnancy. It has three layers:
- Perimetrium (outermost layer)
- Myometrium (muscle layer)
- Endometrium (innermost lining)
Endometrial cancer develops in the endometrium, typically due to hormonal imbalances—particularly excess estrogen without adequate progesterone. Another, less common type, called uterine sarcoma, begins in the muscle layer of the uterus.
Risk Factors and Causes
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing endometrial cancer:
Hormonal Imbalance
High estrogen levels unopposed by progesterone
Age
Risk increases after age 50, especially postmenopause
Family History
Genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome increase risk
Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer
The most common and early warning sign of endometrial cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause.
Other symptoms include:
Postmenopausal bleeding
Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
Spotting between periods
Watery or white vaginal discharge
Pelvic or lower abdominal pain (advanced stages)
Unexplained fatigue or weight loss
Any postmenopausal bleeding should be taken seriously and evaluated immediately.
Early-stage endometrial cancer is often curable with timely intervention.
Types of Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial cancers are classified based on their cell type, behaviour, and hormone sensitivity:
Type I – Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma
- Linked to high estrogen levels
- Typically slow-growing and less aggressive
- Most common form
Diagnosis at Thangam Hospital
Our expert team follows a streamlined diagnostic process:
- Pelvic Examination
- Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVS)
- Endometrial Biopsy gold standard for confirming diagnosis
- Hysteroscopy allows direct visualization of the uterine lining
- MRI / CT Scans for staging and treatment planning
- Genetic Testing for hereditary cancer syndromes like Lynch Syndrome
Treatment Options for Endometrial Cancer
Treatment is determined by the stage, grade, type of cancer, and overall patient health. Our goal is to offer curative, uterus-sparing and fertility-preserving options wherever possible.
- Surgical procedures are planned based on the patient’s age and cancer stage.
- Involves removal of the uterus, both ovaries, fallopian tubes, and lymph nodes.
- Can be performed either as laparoscopic (minimally invasive) or open surgery, with laparoscopic offering less pain and faster recovery.
- The surgical specimen is sent for histopathological examination to guide further treatment planning.
- The need for radiation therapy is based on histopathology findings; early-stage cancers may not require further treatment.
- Brachytherapy (internal radiation) is used when cancer has spread deep within the uterus.
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) is used when tumours have spread to the lymph nodes.
- Chemotherapy is recommended based on histopathological results.
- It is given to prevent further spread of the tumour.
- Endometrial cancer is often hormone-sensitive.
- Hormone therapy, such as intrauterine implants, is used when other treatment options aren’t suitable due to medical or personal reasons.
