Cervical carcinoma (cancer of the cervix)

In most cases, cervical cancer (cervical carcinoma) develops on the basis of a long-standing infection with HPV (human papilloma virus). As a rule, this infection exists for about ten years before cervical cancer develops from it. The HPV infection leads to a cell change on the cervix called Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia(CIN).

Before invasive cervical cancer occurs, its precursors can be treated with different methods. Either directly in my office or on an outpatient basis.

However, insofar as invasive cervical cancer has developed, caution is required. In this situation, treatment should be carried out by a specialized team. Treatment usually consists of either surgery, the extent of which is adapted to the size of the tumor, or radiotherapy.

If you suffer from cervical cancer or a precursor of it, I will be happy to advise you personally in my office.

Any questions? Here is perhaps the answer!

FAQ

Basically, cervical cancer is a malignant cell change in the cervix uteri. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus. It closes the body of the uterus at the bottom and protrudes into the upper part of the vagina.

In early stages, cervical cancer is often curable. In more advanced cases, it is possible that only a prolongation of life can be achieved, but no cure.

Cervical cancer is treated in early stages (when the cancer is confined to the uterus) by surgery. In more advanced stages (cancer grows into the connective tissue or other organs, or there are cancer metastases), radiation therapy or chemotherapy is usually performed

HPV (human papilloma viruses) are mainly transmitted through sexual intercourse. Persistent infection with some strains of HPV can lead to cervical cancer via the development of a cell change (CIN) in the further course.

In Austria, about 400 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year.

Every woman over the age of 18 should be examined regularly by a trusted gynecologist. A PAP smear or HPV test are the safest methods to detect and treat this cancer at an early stage.

At the beginning of the disease, in most cases there are no symptoms that can be clearly attributed to cervical cancer.

However, possible indications of this disease may include:

  • Increased occurrence of vaginal secretions
    Vaginal secretions are also secreted completely normally in healthy women. However, if these secretions smell unpleasant or occur very irregularly, you should inform your gynecologist.
  • Unusual bleeding
    They are among the most common symptoms that indicate cervical cancer. Here, unusual is understood to mean irregular bleeding, bleeding between periods, or unexpected bleeding after sexual intercourse.
  • Pelvic pain
    If pelvic pain also occurs away from menstruation for longer periods of time or more intensely, this may be an indication of a corresponding disease.