New perspectives on screening and early detection of endometrial cancer

Int J Cancer. 2019 Dec 15;145(12):3194-3206. doi: 10.1002/ijc.32514. Epub 2019 Jun 28.

Abstract

Due to the anatomical continuity of the uterine cavity with the cervix, genomic exploitation of material from routine Pap smears and other noninvasive sampling methods represent a unique opportunity to detect signs of disease using biological material shed from the upper genital tract. Recent research findings offer a promising perspective in the detection of endometrial cancer, but certain questions need to be addressed in order to accelerate the implementation of novel technologies in a routine screening or clinical setting. We discuss here new perspectives on detection of endometrial cancer using genomic and other biomarkers in minimally invasive sampling methods with a special focus on public health classic screening criteria, highlighting current gaps in knowledge.

Keywords: biomarkers; early detection; endometrial cancer; genomics; pap smears; screening.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / genetics
  • Early Detection of Cancer / methods
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / genetics
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mass Screening / methods

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor