Different Types of Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer refers to cancer of the uterus. Most uterine cancer originates in the lining of your uterus or endometrium. On rare occasions, cancer may form in the muscles of the uterine wall – known as uterine sarcoma.

Different Types of Uterine Cancer

There are two primary types of uterine cancer, which develop in different parts of the uterus. These are –

Endometrial cancer

Endometrial cancer that occurs in the endometrium is the most common type of uterine cancer, accounting for over 90% of all cases. Over 80% of all endometrial cancers are endometroid adenocarcinoma. This particular form of cancer develops in the glandular cells of the uterine lining and accounts for nearly 75% of all uterine cancers. Endometroid adenocarcinoma is usually detected early and has a high rate of cure.

Other forms of endometrial cancer are –

• Serous Adenocarcinoma – The tumours are likely to metastasize to the lymph nodes any other body parts. About 10% of all uterine cancers diagnosed are of this type.

• Adenosquamous Carcinoma – This is a rare form of cancer, which has elements of both carcinoma and adenocarcinoma of the squamous cells that line the outer surface of the uterus.

• Uterine Carcinoma Sarcoma – This rare type of uterine cancer has characteristics of both sarcoma and adenocarcinoma. The tumours have a greater chance of spreading to the lymph nodes and other body parts.

Uterine Sarcoma

A uterine sarcoma is a rare form of uterine cancer that develops in the walls of the uterus.

The three major types of this cancer are –

• Uterine Leiomyosarcoma – This develops in the muscular uterine walls known as myometrium, accounting for about 2% of all uterine cancers.

• Endometrial Stromal Sarcoma – The tumours form in the connective tissues that provide support to the endometrium. The cancer typically progress slowly and represent less than 1% of all uterine cancers.

• Undifferentiated Sarcoma – This rare subtype of uterine cancer has similarity with endometrial stromal sarcoma, only more aggressive. This means cancer progresses and metastasizes more rapidly.

Talking about the different types of uterine cancer, you should know that the symptoms of the disease vary depending on the cancer type. Nevertheless, consult a doctor to discuss the various types, symptoms and treatment approach of uterine cancer.