What are the treatments for endometrial cancer?

The main treatments for endometrial cancer include surgical resection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and targeted therapy. Endometrial cancer may be related to factors such as high estrogen levels, obesity, and diabetes. It usually presents with symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding and lower abdominal pain. It is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly and choose an individualized treatment plan under the guidance of a doctor.

1. Surgical resection

Surgical resection is the main treatment for endometrial cancer and is suitable for early-stage patients. Total hysterectomy and bilateral adnexectomy are standard surgical procedures, and pelvic lymph node dissection may be required depending on the condition. Surgery can completely remove the lesions, and tumor markers and imaging examinations need to be reviewed regularly after surgery. For young patients, fertility preservation should be considered, but the indications need to be strictly evaluated.

2. Radiotherapy

Radiation therapy includes external irradiation and intracavitary brachytherapy. External irradiation is suitable for postoperative adjuvant treatment or for patients who cannot undergo surgery, and can reduce the probability of local recurrence. Intracavitary brachytherapy can directly act on the lesion area and cause less damage to surrounding normal tissues. Radiotherapy may cause complications such as radiation enteritis and cystitis, which require symptomatic treatment.

3. Chemical drug treatment

Chemotherapy is mostly used for patients with advanced disease or recurrence and metastasis. Commonly used regimens include the combination of cisplatin injection, paclitaxel injection, and doxorubicin liposome injection. Chemotherapy can cause bone marrow suppression, gastrointestinal reactions and other adverse reactions, and blood routine and liver and kidney functions need to be closely monitored during treatment. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy can shrink tumors and create conditions for surgery.

4. Hormone treatment

Hormone therapy is suitable for patients with hormone receptor-positive endometrial cancer. Commonly used drugs include medroxyprogesterone acetate tablets and tamoxifen citrate tablets. Changes in endometrial thickness and hormone levels need to be monitored regularly during treatment. Hormone therapy has a slow onset of action and requires continued use for several months before the efficacy can be evaluated. Adverse reactions such as weight gain and thrombosis may occur.

5. Targeted therapy

Targeted therapy targets patients with specific gene mutations, such as pembrolizumab injection, which can be used for tumors with high microsatellite instability. Genetic testing is required to clarify indications before treatment, as it may cause immune-related adverse reactions such as thyroid dysfunction, pneumonia, etc. Targeted drugs are relatively expensive and need to be assessed for affordability, and some drugs have been included in the scope of medical insurance reimbursement.

After treatment for endometrial cancer, patients need to maintain a balanced diet, supplement appropriate amounts of high-quality protein such as fish, eggs and soy products, and eat more fresh vegetables and fruits. Avoid high-fat and high-sugar diets and keep your weight within a normal range. Carry out moderate exercise according to physical condition, such as walking, yoga, etc., to enhance the body's immunity. Regularly review gynecological examinations, tumor markers and imaging examinations to monitor changes in the condition. Maintain a good attitude, avoid excessive anxiety, and seek psychological support when necessary.