Chapter 110 Endometrial Cancer
INTRODUCTION
Description: Endometrial cancer is characterized by malignant change of the endometrial tissues. These are generally of the adenocarcinoma, adenosquamous, clear cell, or papillary serous cell types.
Prevalence: Two percent to 3% lifetime risk, the most frequent malignancy of the female reproductive tract, roughly 39,000 cases per year in the United States (2007 estimate); 7400 deaths each year (2007), eighth leading site of cancer-related death among American women.
ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS
Causes: Unopposed (without progestins) estrogen stimulation (polycystic ovary syndrome, obesity, chronic anovulation, and estrogen replacement therapy without concomitant progestin) in 90% of cases. Selective estrogen receptor modulators with uterine activity (tamoxifen).
