Radical trachelectomy and adjuvant vaginal brachytherapy to preserve fertility in pediatric cervical adenocarcinoma

Brachytherapy. 2022 Nov-Dec;21(6):764-768. doi: 10.1016/j.brachy.2022.06.004. Epub 2022 Aug 13.

Abstract

Purpose: This case report describes the use of a trachelectomy and adjuvant vaginal brachytherapy for pediatric clear cell adenocarcinoma as definitive fertility-sparing treatment.

Methods and materials: A previously healthy 8-year-old female presented with abdominal cramping and heavy vaginal bleeding. Diagnostic imaging revealed a 3.5 cm circumscribed cervical mass, with subsequent biopsy revealing clear cell adenocarcinoma. Fertility preserving treatment was requested.

Results: The patient underwent a radical trachelectomy, with final pathology demonstrating a close radial margin. Due to close margin, adjuvant radiotherapy with a vaginal cylinder was delivered to a total dose of 18 Gray in three fractions prescribed to a depth of 5 mm from the vaginal surface using iridium-192. With 2 years of follow-up, the patient continues to do well with no evidence of recurrence or late toxicity from treatment.

Conclusions: Pediatric clear cell adenocarcinoma of the cervix is a rare occurrence that lacks clinical trials to guide effective treatment. Adjuvant vaginal brachytherapy following trachelectomy in a pediatric patient with clear cell adenocarcinoma of the cervix is feasible and well-tolerated.

Keywords: Adjuvant brachytherapy; Clear cell adenocarcinoma of the cervix; Fertility preservation; Pediatric.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma, Clear Cell* / pathology
  • Adenocarcinoma, Clear Cell* / radiotherapy
  • Adenocarcinoma, Clear Cell* / surgery
  • Brachytherapy* / methods
  • Cervix Uteri / pathology
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Trachelectomy* / methods
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms* / complications
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms* / radiotherapy
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms* / surgery