Cervical cancer is a type of gynecologic cancer that originates in the cells of the cervix, which is the narrow, lower portion of the uterus (womb).
Cervical cancer usually develops slowly over time. Thanks to the PAP test for cervical cancer screening, it can be detected early and even prevented. The PAP test will identify cancerous and precancerous cells, known as dysplasia, which can be treated before they turn into cancer.
If found in its early stages, cervical cancer is highly curable. Thanks to clinical research, effective treatments are available for all stages of cervical cancer.
If you or a loved one was diagnosed with cervical cancer, it’s helpful to understand who is on your care team and how it’s treated. If you’re ready for a consultation with one of our board-certified gynecologic oncologists, find the location most convenient for you.
The specific type of cervical cancer is identified after a sample of the cancerous cells is examined by a pathologist under a microscope. The type of cervical cancer is named after the cell where it started. The two main types are:
Squamous cell carcinoma develops from cells in the ectocervix (the outer part of the cervix). This type 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, referred to as mixed carcinoma or adenosquamous carcinoma. Very rarely, cancer develops in other cells in the cervix.
Our board-certified gynecologic oncologists are dedicated to finding the best treatment plan for each patient. They not only perform state-of-the-art robot-assisted surgery to remove the cancer, but they also oversee the medical oncology treatments you may need. Appointments for consultations are available at various locations of the Gynecologic Cancer Institute of Chicago, a division of Affiliated Oncologists. Each of our patients has access to advanced treatments, including state-of-the-art robot-assisted surgery for reproductive cancers in women.
Your gynecologist or primary care physician is usually the doctor who performs the cervical cancer screening test and provides a diagnosis if cancer is found. The next step is to meet with a gynecologic oncologist, a doctor specializing in treating cancers that develop in the female reproductive system.
Before your first appointment, the oncologist will evaluate any test results, including the pathology report from your biopsy, to develop a recommended treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. During your consultation with one of our gynecologic oncologists, you’ll learn more about the type of cancer and the next steps. Feel free to bring a loved one with you who can also listen and ask questions during your appointment.
We encourage you to read through the following cervical cancer information and prepare a list of any questions or concerns to discuss with the oncologist at your first appointment.
Early detection is key to preventing and treating cervical cancer. This can be achieved by scheduling regular screening tests, such as the Pap test and the HPV test, which can be done separately or together (known as co-testing). Your doctor can help you decide which test is right for you.
The recommended treatment plan is based on factors such as the extent of cervical tumor growth and spread. This staging process guides the oncologist in choosing the most suitable treatments for removing all the cancer cells and reducing the risk of cancer recurrence.
Several treatment options are available for cervical cancer. The right treatment for you will depend on the type and stage of cancer and potential side effects. Your oncologist will also consider your age, overall health, personal preferences, and whether you want to become pregnant in the future. Most treatment plans include surgery. The need for additional therapies will be determined by the oncologist and can include radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
Our experienced gynecologic oncologists are dedicated to helping you understand your specific cancer diagnosis and providing you with a personalized treatment plan. If you have been diagnosed with cervical cancer, schedule a consultation at the Gynecologic Cancer Institute of Chicago, a division of our practice. We also encourage newly diagnosed patients to seek a second opinion to make sure they feel confident in their care. Our offices are located in Downers Grove and Chicago Ridge, IL.
