About Cervical Cancer Stage 3
Stage III cervical cancer refers to cancer that has spread to areas of the pelvis beyond the cervix. This includes the lower part of the vagina, the pelvic walls, nearby lymph nodes, and near by organs such as the bladder or kidney. It has not yet spread to more distant parts of the body like the bones or lungs.
Stage III cervical cancer is further divided into subcategories:
- Stage IIIA: Cancer has spread into the lower part of the vagina but has not yet spread into the pelvic wall or nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage IIIB: Cancer has spread into the pelvic wall and may be causing kidney problems by blocking one or both tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder (ureters). It has not yet spread into nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage IIIC: Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes
- Stage IIIC1: Cancer has spread to lymph nodes in the pelvis
- Stage IIIC2: Cancer has spread to or lymph nodes in the abdomen close to the aorta.
It's important to note that stage III cervical cancer indicates a more advanced stage of cancer compared to earlier stages.
The cause of cervical cancer is primarily related to persistent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection. HPV, specifically types 16 and 18, is the main cause of cervical cancer. However, it's important to note that not all women with HPV infection develop cervical cancer.
Non-modifiable risk factors for cervical cancer include:
- Age: Women between the ages of 30 and 50 are at higher risk.
- Family history: Having a first-degree relative with cervical cancer increases the risk.
- Genetic factors: Certain genetic variations may increase susceptibility to HPV infection and cervical cancer.
- Maternal exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES): Females born to mothers who took DES during pregnancy are at higher risk of cervical cancer.
Modifiable risk factors for cervical cancer include:
- HPV infection: HPV infection is the most significant risk factor for developing cervical cancer. People more likely to become infected with HPV include those who became sexually active before age 18, have multiple sexual partners, and engage in unprotected sex. The risk of HPV infection can be reduced through vaccination and safe sexual practices.
- Smoking, including second-hand smoke: Increases the risk and progression of cervical cancer.
- Weak immune system: Conditions like HIV/AIDS and immunosuppressive therapy increase susceptibility to HPV infection and cervical cancer.
- Long-term use of oral contraceptives: Using oral contraceptives for an extended period may slightly increase the risk.
Note that these are general risk factors for cervical cancer, not specifically Stage III cervical cancer. It's important to note that these risk factors can vary among individuals, and it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Stage III cervical cancer is characterized by cancer spreading beyond the cervix and into the pelvis. The symptoms of stage 3 cervical cancer can vary depending on the individual, but here are some common symptoms:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic pain
- Urinary problems, such as trouble urinating, pain while urinating, or blood in the urine
- Difficulty having a bowel movement or pain during a bowel movement
- Swollen legs
- Abdominal or back pain
- Fatigue
It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than cervical cancer. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to see your doctor for a proper evaluation and diagnosis. They will be able to provide you with appropriate guidance and treatment options.
Cervical cancer is first diagnosed, then staged.
To diagnose and determine the stage of cervical cancer, several examinations, tests, and procedures are commonly performed:
- Pap Test: This test collects cells from the surface of the cervix and vagina to check for abnormalities and HPV infection. This is considered a screening test. If abnormalities are identified, further evaluation is performed.
- Pelvic Clinical Examination: This includes inspection and palpation of the pelvic area to assess tumor size, and vaginal and uterine involvement.
- Colposcopy: It involves using a special magnifying device called a colposcope to closely examine the cervix for any abnormal areas.
- Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the cervix during a colposcopy or through a transvaginal needle biopsy guided by ultrasound. The sample is then examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells. The tissue sample is sent to lab, where a pathologist will examine it under a microscope.
If cancer cells are found from the cervical biopsy, additional examinations, tests, and procedures are performed to determine the stage.
- Imaging tests: Imaging tests are done to provide detailed views of the inside of the body. Imaging tests help determine the location, size, and depth of the cervical cancer and spread of cancer to other parts of the body. Imaging tests include:
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
- Computed tomography (CT) scan
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
- Ultrasound
- X-rays
- Blood tests: Blood tests may be done to check for signs that cervical cancer has spread to the bladder, kidneys, or liver.
- Examinations of near-by organs may be performed to check for spread of cervical cancer:
- Cystoscopy: This procedure involves looking inside the bladder
- Sigmoidoscopy: This procedure involves looking inside the rectum and lower part of the colon. Alternatively, a proctoscopy may be performed to look inside just the rectum.
For stage III cervical cancer, the cervical cancer will have spread to the lower part of the vagina, to the pelvic wall, formed a tumor that obstructs the ureters, and/or spread to the lymph nodes in the pelvis or near the aorta.
Remember, these are general descriptions, and specific examinations, tests and procedures may vary based on individual circumstances. It's important to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.
The goals of treatment for stage III cervical cancer are to manage the cancer and achieve remission. To achieve these goals, a combination of therapies and procedures are recommended:
- Chemotherapy: These medications target and kill cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy helps to shrink tumors and make radiation therapy more effective. For stage III cervical cancer, it is often given with radiation.
- Radiation Therapy: This treatment uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth. External beam radiation therapy targets the tumor from outside the body, while internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy) involves placing a radioactive source near the tumor. Radiation therapy can help destroy cancer cells and reduce tumor size. For stage III cervical cancer, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are often used together.
- Surgery: Surgery may be performed to remove affected lymph nodes. This is often followed by radiation therapy, with or without chemotherapy.
- Health Behavior Changes: Making certain lifestyle changes can support treatment outcomes and overall well-being. These may include maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress levels, and quitting smoking.
Treatment may vary based upon the other organs or lymph nodes affected by stage III cervical cancer. It is important to consult a health care specialist who will provide treatment options based upon the individual situation and individual preferences.