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Endometrial cancer

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Endometrial cancer

Definition:

Endometrial cancer involves cancerous growth of the endometrium, the lining of the uterus.

Alternative Names:
Endometrial/uterine adenocarcinoma; Uterine cancer; Adenocarcinoma of the endometrium/uterus; Cancer - uterine; Cancer - endometrial

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Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Endometrial cancer is the most common type of uterine cancer. Although the exact cause of endometrial cancer is unknown, increased levels of estrogen appear to have a role. One of estrogen's normal functions is to stimulate the buildup of the epithelial lining of the uterus. Excess estrogen administered to laboratory animals produces endometrial hyperplasia and cancer.

The incidence of endometrial cancer in women in the U.S. is 1 - 2%. The incidence peaks between the ages of 60 and 70 years, but 2 - 5% of cases may occur before the age of 40 years. Increased risk of developing endometrial cancer has been noted in women with increased levels of natural estrogen.

Associated conditions include the following:

• Obesity
• Hypertension
• Polycystic ovarian disease

Increased risk is also associated with the following:

• Nulliparity (never having carried a pregnancy)
• Infertility (inability to become pregnant)
• Early menarche (onset of menstruation)
• Late menopause (cessation of menstruation)

Women who have a history of endometrial polyps or other benign growths of the uterine lining, postmenopausal women who use estrogen-replacement therapy (specifically if not given in conjunction with periodic progestin), and those with diabetes are also at increased risk.

Tamoxifen, a drug used to treat breast cancer, may also increase the risk of developing endometrial cancer.

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