Cervical cancer is a type of gynecologic cancer that starts in the cells of the cervix — the lower, narrow end of the uterus (womb).
Cervical cancer usually develops slowly over time. Before cancer appears, the cells of the cervix go through changes known as dysplasia, in which abnormal cells begin to appear in the cervical tissue. Over time these abnormal cells may become cancerous, starting to grow and spread more deeply into the cervix and to surrounding areas. In many cases, the growth of the abnormal cells can be identified during a routine Pap test that screens for signs of cervical cancer developing.
Cervical cancers are named after the type of cell where the cancer started. The two main types are:
Squamous cell carcinoma develops from cells in the ectocervix (the outer part of the cervix). This accounts for the majority (up to 90%) of cervical cancers.
Adenocarcinoma develops in the endocervix's glandular cells (the inner part of the cervix) that line the lower birth canal.
Sometimes, cervical cancer has features of both squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. This is called mixed carcinoma or adenosquamous carcinoma. Very rarely, cancer develops in other cells in the cervix.
Find a Gynecologic Oncologist in the South Chicago Area
The gynecologic oncologists at Affiliated Oncologists care for patients who receive a cervical cancer diagnosis, creating a plan specific to each individual’s needs. Our gynecologist oncologists work closely with the other cancer specialists on our team, including radiation oncologists and medical oncologists, to determine the right timing for surgery and other treatments. We also provide second opinions on diagnosis and treatment plans for cervical cancer. We have locations in the South Chicago suburbs, including Downers Grove and Oak Lawn, IL.