Endometrial Cancer

What Is Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial cancer, also referred to as uterine cancer, starts in the endometrium, which is the inner lining of the uterus, or womb. The uterus is a hollow, muscular organ where a fetus grows. Most cancers of the uterus start in the endometrium; thus are called endometrial cancers. If the uterine cancer originates from the muscle or other supportive tissues it is referred to as a uterine sarcoma. Uterine sarcomas are rare and include the subtypes of leiomyosarcomas and endometrial stromal sarcomas.

Endometrial cancers are classified according to how they appear under a microscope. They are divided into the following subtypes:

  • Adenocarcinomas – most endometrial cancers are adenocarcinomas, which originate from cells that make mucous and other fluids. These cancers can be further subdivided into clear-cell carcinomas, mucinous adenocarcinomas, and papillary serous adenocarcinomas.
  • Carcinosarcoma
  • Squamous cell carcinoma
  • Undifferentiated carcinoma
  • Small cell carcinoma
  • Transitional carcinoma

In the United States, endometrial cancer is the most common cancer of the female reproductive organs. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2015, nearly 55,000 new cases of uterine cancers will be diagnosed and more than 10,000 women will die from uterine cancers.

What Causes Endometrial Cancer

Risk Factors For Endometrial Cancer

Diagnosing Endometrial Cancer

Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer

Prognosis

Living With Endometrial Cancer

Screening

Prevention

Medication And Treatment

Complementary and Alternative Treatment

When To Contact A Doctor

Questions For Your Doctor

Questions For A Doctor

Resources