Stage IV endometrial cancer after failed conservative management: a case report

Gynecol Oncol. 2008 Dec;111(3):579-82. doi: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2008.02.027. Epub 2008 Apr 18.

Abstract

Background: With younger women becoming increasingly overweight, endometrial cancer is becoming a concern in this group. These women are likely to desire fertility preservation. There are no randomized controlled data to guide conservative therapy.

Case: A 24-year-old female with endometrial adenocarcinoma diagnosed in December 2003 was treated conservatively with Megace and levonorgestrel intrauterine device. She was lost to follow-up and represented in March 2006. Endometrial biopsy revealed grade 1 endometrial adenocarcinoma. Definitive surgical therapy was recommended, however, the patient declined surgery in the interest of preserving fertility until November 2006. Final pathology revealed a stage IV, grade 1 endometrioid endometrial cancer.

Conclusion: Women with endometrial cancer who desire fertility preservation should be counseled regarding the possible risk of advanced disease if surgical therapy is delayed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / drug therapy*
  • Adenocarcinoma / surgery*
  • Adult
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Treatment Failure
  • Young Adult