Endometrial cancer (patient information)
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What is endometrial cancer?
Endometrial cancer is a cancer that forms in the tissue lining the uterus (the small, hollow, pear-shaped organ in a woman's pelvis in which a baby grows). Most endometrial carcinomas are cancers of the cells that form glands in the endometrium. These are called adenocarcinomas (cancers that begin in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids).
The most common type of endometrial cancer is called endometrioid adenocarcinoma. Other rare types of endometrial carcinomas include squamous cell and undifferentiated. Doctors sometimes divide endometrial carcinoma into 2 types based on their outlook and underlying causes. "Type 1" cancers are thought to be caused by excess estrogen. They are usually not very aggressive and are slow to spread to other tissues.
A small number of endometrial cancers are "type 2." Experts aren't sure what causes type 2 cancers, but the type 2 cancers don't seem to be caused by too much estrogen. Because type 2 cancers are more likely to grow and spread outside of the uterus, they have a poorer outlook than type 1 cancers. Doctors tend to treat these cancers more aggressively.
How do I know if I have endometrial cancer and what are the symptoms of endometrial cancer?
Who is at risk for endometrial cancer?
How to know you have endometrial cancer?
When to seek urgent medical care
Treatment options
Diseases with similar symptoms
Where to find medical care for endometrial cancer
Directions to Hospitals Treating endometrial cancer