Endometrial cancer secondary prevention
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Monalisa Dmello, M.B,B.S., M.D. [2]
Uterine cancer behaves differently in each person, and a standard follow-up schedule would not work for everyone. People with uterine cancer should talk to their doctor about a follow-up plan that suits their individual situation. Follow-up care is often shared among the cancer specialists (oncologists), the gynecologist and the family doctor.
After treatment has ended, new symptoms and symptoms that don't go away should be reported to the doctor without waiting for the next scheduled appointment. These may include:
pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis, back or legs vaginal bleeding or discharge change in bladder habits change in bowel habits weight loss chronic cough
The chance of uterine cancer recurring is greatest within 2 years, so close follow-up is needed during this time.
Schedule
Follow-up after uterine cancer treatment varies. Follow-up visits are usually scheduled:
every 3–4 months for the first 2 years every 6 months for the next 3 years yearly from then on
Procedures
During a follow-up visit, the doctor usually asks questions about the side effects of treatment and how the person is coping. The doctor may do a complete physical examination, including:
pelvic examination feeling the lymph nodes in the groin area Pap test to look for cancer cells in the upper part of the vagina, near the area where the uterus used to be
Tests may be ordered as part of follow-up or if the doctor suspects the cancer has come back (has recurred).
Chest x-ray may be done yearly. CT scan may be done if the woman has symptoms or something is found during the examination. Levels of cancer antigen 125 (CA125) in the blood may be checked if it was elevated before surgery for advanced-stage cancers.
If a recurrence is found during follow-up, the oncology team will assess the person with cancer to determine the best treatment options.
References