The assessment and management of advanced cancer of the cervix
The assessment and management of advanced cancer of the cervix
Across the world, carcinoma of the uterine cervix is one of the most common malignancies in women, and one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality. In spite of the availability of cervical cytologic screening, many women do not have Papanicolau (PAP) smears after childbearing and up to 30 per cent of cases develop despite good preventive surveillance. Because cervical cancer is associated with HPV infection acquired during the younger years through sexual contact, many of the patients with cervical cancer tend to be younger. This chapter focuses on the management and assessment of advanced cancer of the cervix. Among the most significant advancement in the treatment of cervical cancer is the introduction of platinum-based chemotherapy during pelvic radiation therapy. This method prolongs survival of the patients and reduces risk of recurrence by 30 to 50 per cent. Discussed in the chapter are the patterns of failure of primary treatment that lead to complications and recurrence; distant failure, which results in lymphatic spread and metastases; and emotional support for the patients.
Keywords: carcinoma, uterine cervix, malignancies, cervical cytologic screening, Papanicolau smears, PAP smears, cervical cancer, HPV infection, cervix
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