Uterine Cancer Diagnosis
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Testing for Uterine Cancers
Women with high-risk for endometrial or uterine cancer may be referred to a specialist if they begin to exhibit some of the common symptoms of uterine cancer. For example, a doctor may refer a woman to a gynecological oncologist if there are potential signs of cancer found during a pelvic exam. Additional tests may include:
Endometrial biopsy - A doctor inserts a tube into the uterus through the cervix. Suction is then used to extract a small amount of endometrial tissue that is sent to pathology to be tested. This is normally an out-patient procedure and side effects may include mild to severe cramping.
Hysteroscopy - A doctor inserts a telescope into the cervix to view the uterus. A saline solution expands the area, helping the doctor to see the lining of the uterus. The doctor is able to biopsy tissue that looks potentially cancerous during this procedure. General or local anesthesia may be used to numb the patient.
Dilation and curettage (D & C) - Sometimes the test results for an endometrial biopsy are not conclusive. When doctors cannot tell whether endometrial tissue is cancerous, an out-patient surgery called a dilation and curettage (D & C) is performed. During this procedure, tissue from the lining of the uterus is collected to test for cancer. There is little to no discomfort with this procedure because most women are placed under general anesthesia.
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