The cervix is an integral part of the bottom of the uterus (womb). The cervix opens into the vagina. Carcinoma of the cervix is commonest cancers of females in India. It usually occurs in the low socio-economic strata. Unhygienic conditions and poor menstrual hygiene are risk factors for cervical cancers. The other risk factors include multiple sexual partners, multiple pregnancies and early sexual encounter. Most cervical cancers are caused by infection with a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV).
In India, most of the women present late with symptoms. In some women, it causes abnormal vaginal bleeding or white discharge. Former can include excessive bleeding which can happen during menstrual periods, bleeding after intercourse, or bleeding after menopause. In more advanced conditions, patients may also present with low backache and difficulty in passing urine.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Screening test of women between the ages of 21 and 65 years with the PAP smears helps in early detection of cervical cancers. A PAP test involves the collection of cells from the surface of the cervix and vagina. The cells are examined under a microscope.
An HPV is a test that is used to check DNA or RNA in cells. Cells are collected from the cervix and checked for infection caused by human papillomavirus. When both the HPV test and Pap test are done together, it is called PAP/HPV co-test.
When the patient presents to the Gynecologist or Oncologist, a thorough clinical examination and a vaginal examination is done. After this, a biopsy is taken and is sent for examination under a microscope (Histopathological examination). This test confirms the diagnosis of cancer. Staging is done to see the extent of cancer spread. The scans include Ultra sonogram, or CT scan or MRI scan or PET CT scan. Further treatment is based on the stage of the cancer
Treatment
Treatment is based on the stage of cancer. For early-stage, treatment is usually surgery. As the stage advances, the treatment is radiation along with chemotherapy, followed by internal radiation (Brachytherapy).
Surgery
Surgery is usually preferred for early-stage cervical cancers. It usually involves removal of the uterus along with the cervix. This type of surgery is called a hysterectomy. Sometimes it also involves the removal of lymph nodes. If there are no other risk factors, then it might be the only modality of treatment. Any high-risk features require the addition of radiation therapy with or without chemotherapy.
Radiation Therapy and Brachytherapy
As the stage advances, radiation with or without chemotherapy is the treatment option. This radiation spans over 5 to 6 weeks, and the chemotherapy is usually given weekly over 4 to 6 weeks. With the advancement of technology, radiation can be delivered safely with sparing of normal tissues. Internal Radiation or Brachytherapy usually follows external radiation. This treatment ensures the best cure rates.
Chemotherapy /Targeted therapy /Immunotherapy
Chemotherapy is usually combined along with external radiation therapy. It is given weekly during the full course of external radiation therapy for a minimum for four weeks to a maximum of 6 weeks.
When the cancer is spread to other organs, it is called metastasis. In such conditions, chemotherapy with or without targeted therapy is the preferred treatment.
When all lines of chemotherapy have failed, or the disease has progressed, Immunotherapy can be considered with or without chemotherapy.
Cancer Therapy India is known as the best cervical cancer hospital in Bangalore having the best cervical cancer doctors in Bangalore with extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of virtually every kind of cancer. Cancer Therapy India is designated as the best hospital in India for cervical cancer treatment as we have renowned physicians who are expert in using the latest technologies and treatments to address unmet patient needs and have vast experience in providing the best cervical cancer treatment in India.
