Medical Health Encyclopedia

A 2005 study suggested that adjuvant (chemotherapy added to surgical treatment) platinum-based chemotherapy can improve survival and reduce cancer recurrence. Considering the considerable adverse effects of chemotherapy, more research is needed to determine which stage 1 patients would benefit most from this adjuvant treatment.

Click the icon to see an illustrated series detailing hysterectomy.

Stage II

In stage II, the cancer has spread to other areas in the pelvis. It may have advanced to the uterus or fallopian tubes (stage IIA), or other areas within the pelvis (stage IIB), but is still limited to the pelvic area. Stage IIC indicates capsular involvement, rupture, or positive washings (i.e., they contain malignant cells). The five-year survival rate for stage II is approximately 60% to 80%.

Treatment Options: Surgical management for most women in this stage is total hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and removal of as much cancer in the pelvic area as possible (tumor debulking). Surgical staging should be performed.

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After the operation, treatment with chemotherapy (e.g., paclitaxel and carboplatin) is usually necessary in an attempt to eradicate residual cancer and decrease the chance for relapse.

Stage III

In stage III, one or both of the following are present: (1) The cancer has spread beyond the pelvis to the omentum (the fatty layer that covers and pads organs in the abdomen) and other areas within the abdomen, such as the surface of the liver or intestine. (2) The cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. The average five-year survival rate for this stage is 20%.

Click the icon to see an image of the lymph system located near the ovaries.

Treatment Options: Surgical management for most women in this stage is total hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and removal of as much cancer as possible (tumor debulking).