Pap smears are not a screening test to detect endometrial cancer. Unless a patient has a genetic predisposition to endometrial cancer (Lynch syndrome), screening tests are not recommended in women without signs or symptoms.
Although there are currently no screening tests recommended to detect endometrial cancer in women without signs or symptoms, expert cancer researchers at the OSUCCC – James are working to develop tests that can detect and diagnose the disease as early as possible, leading to improved outcomes, faster responses and fewer side effects. Women at high risk for endometrial cancer because of heredity should consider genetic analysis for early detection.
If you’ve been diagnosed with endometrial cancer, would like a second opinion or would like to speak with an endometrial cancer specialist, please call The James Line at 800-293-5066 or 614-293-5066 to make an appointment.
Diagnosing Endometrial Cancer
An accurate, complete diagnosis is essential for effectively treating endometrial cancer. Because there is no routine cancer, the OSUCCC – James’s world-renowned endometrial cancer specialists and subspecialists reach across multiple disciplines and modes of treatment to offer patients the latest technologies and the most advanced procedures to understand endometrial cancer at the molecular and genetic levels – the levels that drive each patient’s specific cancer.
The OSUCCC – James is home to world-renowned diagnostic experts in gynecologic cancers. In fact, our team includes experts who specialize in gynecologic cancers – and only gynecologic cancers, 24/7 – studying, discovering and treating each kind, and developing and delivering leading-edge therapies.
These subspecialists and super subspecialists use the most accurate, advanced diagnostic testing and technology to analyze your cancer, enabling an entire team across multiple medical disciplines to determine the most effective, targeted treatment specifically for you.
If endometrial cancer is suspected, your OSUCCC – James specialist will examine you and ask you about your medical history, including information about symptoms and any risk factors you may have.
The experts may also conduct the following tests to form a diagnosis:
Endometrial biopsy
A gynecologic oncologist removes a small sample of cells from the uterus lining using a thin, flexible tube. A specially trained OSUCCC – James pathologist then examines the cells under a microscope for any signs of cancer.
Dilatation and Curettage
This procedure is similar to an endometrial biopsy in which a sample of the inner lining of the uterus is taken for analysis. Instead of using the thin, flexible tube, however, the experts dilate the cervix, then collect cells using a spoon-shaped surgical instrument called a curette. A specially trained OSUCCC – James pathologist then examines the cells under a microscope for any signs of cancer.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests produce pictures of the inside of the body. There are several imaging tests that can be done to diagnose endometrial cancer, including:
Transvaginal Ultrasound Exam
A procedure in which a probe, called an ultrasound transducer, is inserted into the vagina and used to create pictures of the inside of the uterus and surrounding tissues
CT Scan (Computed Tomography Scan)
A CT scan is an X-ray test that produces detailed, cross- sectional images of your body.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
An MRI uses a high powered magnet and radio waves to help the OSUCCC – James subspecialists see detailed images inside the body. A substance called gadolinium is injected into a vein before the test. The gadolinium will collect around areas with cancer cells, and then a computer translates the radio waves into a detailed picture to help determine if a tumor is present.
PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Scan
A PET scan uses a small amount of a radioactive tracer mixed with glucose to identify cancer cells. The PET scanner rotates around the patient’s body, and a special imaging camera displays images of areas where the tracer concentrates are highlighted. These areas are more active and usually indicate cancerous cells.
Tumor Sequencing and Genomic Analysis
Genetic Analysis
This test analyzes the cells and identifies abnormal chromosomes (where genes are) that contribute to endometrial cancer. Identifying these abnormalities can help the OSUCCC – James experts decide the very best kind of personalized treatment for the patient.
Somatic (Tissue/Tumor) Analysis
In this test, genetic material is obtained from the tumor tissue and examined for changes in the genes or proteins that may help predict how a tumor may behave.