Definition:
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, located in the lower part of the uterus. Cervical cancer falls under two classifications: squamous cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma. The cancers are classified according to how they look under a microscope, and squamous cell carcinoma occurs in 80-90% of cases.
Diagnosis:
In order to determine if a patient has cervical cancer, several procedures must be done to get a complete diagnosis. This includes a pap smear and a biopsy of the cervix, which is a colposcopy.
Symptoms and Signs:
Cervical cancer may be hard to detect, as its early phases are sometimes asymptomatic. Vaginal bleeding is often the first symptom of cervical cancer. Other symptoms include some pain during sexual intercourse, and vaginal discharge. Symptoms of later stages include abdominal and lung metastases. When the cancer is in its advanced stage, symptoms include pelvic pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, back pain, leg pain, weight loss, heavy bleeding from vagina, single swollen leg, bone fractures, and leaking of urine or feces.
Risk Factors:
Certain occurrences may put women at risk for cervical cancer. The following causes may contribute to cervical cancer: smoking, the human papilloma virus (HPV), an HIV infection, hormonal contraception, multiple pregnancies, dietary factors, Chlamydia infection, or a family history of the cancer.
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