Radiotherapy and Chemo in Gynae Cancers Flashcards
What is the 2nd most common cancer in women under 35?
Cervical
List various causes of cervical cancer.
- HPV – types 16 and 18
- Smoking
- Age of onset of intercourse
- ‘High risk’ male
- OCP
- Multiple partners
What proteins are found in cervical cancer caused by HPV?
E6 and E7 proteins
What is key to protect against HPV?
VACCINATION
Outline the presentation of cervical cancer.
- Seen on screening
- Post-coital bleeding
- Intermenstrual bleeding
- Post-menopausal bleeding
What is an odd presentation of cervical cancer?
Acute Renal Failure - cervical cancer can cause hydronephrosis
Outline the staging of cervical cancer.
- Stage 1a – microscopic
- Stage 1b – visible lesion
- Stage 2 a – vaginal involvement
- Stage 2b – parametrial involvement
- Stage 3 – lower vagina or pelvic sidewall
- Stage 4 – bladder/rectum or metastases
What are the 3 different treatment options for cervical cancer?
- Surgery
- Radiotherapy
- Chemo
What is radiotherapy?
High energy x-rays
Where is radiotherapy targeted?
Tumour +/- nodes
What are the 2 different types of radiotherapy?
- External beam
* Brachytherapy (high dose radiotherapy given directly to the cancer)
What are the 3 different reasons that chemo is used?
- Neoadjuvant – given before surgery
- Concomittant (given with radiotherapy)
- Palliative
Explain how Brachytherapy works.
Intrauterine tube is inserted into the cervix, and high doses of radiotherapy are given directly to the cancer
- Ovoids (colpostats)
- Ring applicator
- Remotely afterloaded
Name 2 chemotherapy drugs used in the treatment of cervical cancer.
- Cisplatin – 40mg/m2 weekly
* Carbplatin/paclitaxel
What is the main treatment of endometrial cancer?
Surgery
