Cervical cancer is a significant health concern for women worldwide. This type of cancer starts in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Most cervical cancers are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus transmitted through sexual contact. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving survival rates and outcomes. In this blog, we’ll explore the signs of cervical cancer, how it’s diagnosed, and the medical management options available.
Signs of Cervical Cancer from HPV
Recognising the early signs of cervical cancer is vital for timely intervention. HPV infection often goes unnoticed because it usually doesn’t cause symptoms until the cancer is more advanced. Here are some signs to watch for:
- Unusual Vaginal Bleeding: The most common early symptom of cervical cancer that includes bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or post-menopause.
- Pelvic Pain: Persistent pain in the pelvic region, not related to the menstrual cycle, can be a warning sign.
- Discomfort During Intercourse: Pain or bleeding during or after sex can indicate abnormal changes in the cervix.
- Unusual Vaginal Discharge: A watery, bloody, or foul-smelling discharge can be a symptom of cervical cancer.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or sleepy is a sign of many health issues, including cervical cancer.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
How to Diagnose Cervical Cancer
Early diagnosis of cervical cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Several methods are used to detect and diagnose cervical cancer:
Pap Smear Test
The Pap smear is a routine screening test that involves collecting cells from the cervix to look for abnormalities. It’s recommended for women starting at age 21 and continuing every three years if results are normal. For women over 30, the test may be combined with an HPV test and done every five years.
HPV Test
The HPV test detects the presence of high-risk HPV strains that are most likely to cause cervical cancer. This test can be performed alone or in conjunction with a Pap smear. It is particularly recommended for women over 30.
Colposcopy
If a Pap smear or HPV test indicates abnormalities, a colposcopy may be performed. This procedure uses a special microscope- colposcope to examine the cervix more closely. The doctor applies a solution to the cervix making abnormal cells easier to see.
Biopsy
During a colposcopy, if the doctor sees any suspicious areas, they may take a biopsy. This involves removing a small tissue sample from the cervix to be examined under a microscope for cancerous or precancerous cells.
Endocervical Curettage
This procedure involves scraping cells from the cervical canal to check for abnormalities. It’s often done during a colposcopy if the transformation zone (where the outer and inner cervix meet) cannot be fully seen.
Imaging Tests
If cervical cancer is diagnosed, imaging tests such as MRI, CT scans, or PET scans may be performed to determine the extent of the disease and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
Medical Management of Cervical Cancer
The treatment of cervical cancer depends on several factors, including the cancer’s stage, the patient’s age, overall health, and personal preferences. Here are the main treatment options:
Surgery
Surgical options aim to remove the cancerous tissue while preserving as much normal function as possible. The types of surgery include:
- Conisation: This procedure removes a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix. It’s often used for early-stage cervical cancer.
- Hysterectomy: This surgery removes the uterus and cervix. There are two main types:
- Total Hysterectomy: Removes the uterus and cervix.
- Radical Hysterectomy: Removes the uterus, cervix, part of the vagina, and surrounding tissues.
- Trachelectomy: This procedure removes the cervix and surrounding tissue while preserving the uterus, allowing for the possibility of future pregnancies. It’s an option for women with early-stage cervical cancer who wish to maintain fertility.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with surgery and chemotherapy. There are two main types:
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Delivers radiation from outside the body, targeting the pelvic area.
- Brachytherapy: Places a radiation source directly inside the body, near the cancer cells.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It’s often combined with radiation therapy for more advanced stages of cervical cancer. Depending on the specific drugs used, chemotherapy can be administered orally or intravenously.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells while minimising damage to normal cells. Bevacizumab (Avastin) is a targeted therapy drug used for advanced cervical cancer. It works by inhibiting the growth of new blood vessels that tumours need to grow.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system recognise and attack cancer cells. Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) is an immunotherapy drug used for certain types of advanced cervical cancer. It targets the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, which cancer cells use to evade the immune system.
Cervical Cancer Side Effects
Cervical cancer and its treatment can cause a range of side effects. These can vary depending on the treatment type and the individual patient. Common side effects include:
Radiation Therapy Side Effects
- Fatigue: Many patients feel tired after radiation therapy.
- Skin Changes: Skin in the treated area may become red, sore, and irritated.
- Bowel and Bladder Issues: Radiation can cause diarrhoea, urinary frequency, and discomfort.
- Sexual Health: Vaginal dryness, stenosis, and pain during intercourse can occur.
Chemotherapy Side Effects
- Nausea and Vomiting: Chemotherapy can cause severe nausea and vomiting.
- Hair Loss: Many chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss.
- Increased Infection Risk: Chemotherapy can lower white blood cell counts, making infections more likely.
- Anaemia: Low red blood cell counts can cause fatigue and weakness.
Surgery Side Effects
- Pain and Discomfort: Post-surgery pain and discomfort are common.
- Infection: Surgical sites can become infected.
- Changes in Menstrual Cycle: Surgery on the cervix or uterus can affect menstrual cycles.
- Fertility Issues: Some surgical treatments for cervical cancer can affect fertility.
Cervical cancer is a serious health issue, but with early detection and appropriate medical management, the prognosis can be significantly improved. Recognising the signs of cervical cancer from HPV, understanding how to diagnose it, and being aware of the available treatments are crucial steps in combating this disease. The ICCG India offers the best cervical cancer treatment in Chennai, providing comprehensive care for those affected. Patients can navigate their treatment journey with hope and confidence, with the right care and support.
