Diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the female reproductive system
Cervical cancer is one of the most common gynecological cancers, affecting approximately 1 in 40 women during their lifetime. It primarily develops in the lower part of the uterus (cervix) and is more common in younger women, especially those who do not undergo regular gynecological check-ups. While cervical cancer can be serious, prevention and early diagnosis make it highly treatable.
Causes and Risk Factors
Cervical cancer is almost exclusively associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Main Causes and Risk Factors:
- Infection with high-risk HPV types.
- Early onset of sexual activity.
- Multiple sexual partners.
- Smoking, which weakens the immune system and facilitates disease progression.
- Weakened immune system (e.g., due to HIV).
HPV infection can cause precancerous changes in the cervix, which may progress to cervical cancer over 3-5 years.
Symptoms
In its early stages, cervical cancer is often asymptomatic. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
- Early Symptoms:
- Vaginal bleeding during or after sexual intercourse or between menstrual periods.
- Persistent foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
- Advanced Symptoms:
- Pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse.
- Unexplained weight loss and fatigue.
Diagnosis
Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment.
- Diagnosis typically involves a combination of methods:
- Gynecological examination and Pap smear.
- Colposcopy for further investigation.
- Biopsy for histological confirmation of the disease.
- Imaging tests (MRI, CT) for staging the cancer.
Prognosis
The prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis. In early stages, treatment success rates are very high, and many women achieve full recovery.
Prevention
Cervical cancer is largely preventable through regular gynecological check-ups and vaccination.
- Pap Smear Test: Detects precancerous changes and abnormalities.
- HPV DNA Test: Identifies high-risk HPV types.
- Colposcopy: Provides a detailed view of the cervix and facilitates targeted biopsies.
- HPV Vaccination: Protects against the most common HPV types associated with cervical cancer.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the stage of the disease and the woman's reproductive goals.
- Early Stages:
- Local excision of the lesion through cone biopsy or wide excision.
- Advanced Stages:
- Radical hysterectomy with complete lymph node dissection.
- Adjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapy, tailored to the patient's needs.
- Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery: Minimally invasive techniques are employed to reduce recovery time and surgical risks.
Our Commitment
At our clinic, we provide comprehensive care for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of cervical cancer. We collaborate with leading oncologists and radiation therapists, utilizing laparoscopic techniques to minimize patient burden and ensure the best possible outcomes.