The lining of the uterus is called the endometrium. Cancer of the endometrium, the most common cancer of the female reproductive organs, is a disease in which malignant (cancerous) cells are found in the endometrium. Endometroid cancer is a specific type of endometrial cancer. Cancer of the endometrium is different from cancer of the muscle of the uterus, which is called sarcoma of the uterus. About 75 percent of all endometrial cancers are adenocarcinomas. Endometrial cancer is highly curable when found early. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), about 40,880 cases of cancer of the uterine body will be diagnosed in the US during 2005. Approximately 95 percent of these uterine body cancers are endometrial cancers.

About Endometrial Cancer

Familial Risk Assessment – Some cancer syndromes are more likely to be inherited. We provide formal risk assessment for the woman and her family, cancer genetics education, genetic testing, and develop management plans for follow-up care and counseling.

Patient evaluation and assessment – Our subspecialist team members use state-of-the-art technology and skilled physical examination to assess each woman for diagnosis, treatment and care planning.

Minimally invasive surgery – Some traditional pelvic surgeries can now be done with minimally invasive techniques. Laparoscopic and robotic surgery allow treatment of complex problems with smaller incisions and improved recovery.

Gyn Pathology Review – The gynecologic oncologists at UAB have access to expert gyn-pathologists for review of surgical specimens following surgical procedures or biopsies for malignant conditions. Many physicians from the state and southeast consult with members of the Division regarding the proper diagnosis or interpretation of biopsy or specimen materials. In cases where treatment planning is necessary the gynecologic oncologist may present a patient’s case at the weekly Tumor Board held at UAB. At this planning conference, (attended by gyn oncologists, pathologists, radiologist, medical and radiation oncologists), details of a patient’s history, therapies, pathology specimens and radiologic images are confidentially presented and the cases discussed by physicians in attendance. Specific treatment recommendations are formulated and later discussed with the patients and referring physicians.

Clinical Trials – Our patients have access to therapies arising from the latest national clinical investigations. Our division has made significant contributions through research to the body of medical literature guiding current, as well as, traditional therapeutic strategies. Patients may participate in on-going clinical investigations gaining access to therapies not available at many institutions or take advantage of the latest treatment concepts developed by previous trials. These may include:

• Therapeutic Clinical Trials for Advanced Disease - Click here for information on clinical trials that are available through UAB.

Palliative Care Services – Our specially trained physicians and other professionals provide treatment for women with advanced disease that helps relieve symptoms and maintains quality of life. A comprehensive approach combines services to meet physical needs with counseling to assist families with psychological, social, and spiritual concerns.

Support Group Services