Invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix

Squamous cell carcinoma of cervical cancer accounts for 80-90% of all cervical cancers. These malignant tumors occur in cells on the outer surface of the organ. This type is also divided into squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix with keratinization (the presence of dead or keratinized cells) and non-keratinizing (cells have a more regular shape, without keratinized areas, and actively divide). If the neoplasm has spread beyond the diseased organ to a neighboring tissue, invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix is diagnosed.

Diagnosis of invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix

The examination usually begins with taking a Pap smear. During the procedure, the doctor gently cleanses a sample of mucus and cells on the cervix. The result of the smear helps to detect abnormal tissue changes, including the presence of the HPV virus.

If atypical squamous cells are present, the patient undergoes liquid cytology (taking a higher-quality smear due to storage in a special liquid). If cancer cells are present in the sample, the doctor prescribes a colposcopy. This is an examination of the cervix and taking a tumor sample with a magnifying instrument with a light source (colposcope).

If the diagnosis remains unclear, a conical biopsy is performed. This is a small surgery to remove a little more tissue. If invasive squamous cell non-cancerous cervical cancer is suspected, the doctor prescribes comprehensive imaging of other body organs. Testing includes chest X-rays, CT and MRI scans of the abdomen and pelvis, as well as PET-CT scans.

Surgical treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix

Invasive and microinvasive squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix is treated with a combination of surgery, radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Modern clinics perform a sentinel lymph node biopsy before surgery. The node where cancer cells can enter in the first place is first detected using a dye, and then removed and tested for the presence of cancer. This procedure helps to determine the level of tumor spread and the correct treatment plan.

If no metastases are found, hysterectomy is recommended – complete removal of the uterus and cervix along with the pelvic lymph nodes. Today, this operation is often performed minimally invasively – using a laparoscope or a Da Vinci robotic system. Compared to open surgery, the new approaches provide a shorter period of hospitalization, lower risk of infection, and lower cost.

Non-surgical treatment of invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix

Patients whose cancer cells have spread throughout the body (metastasis) are prescribed systemic chemoradiotherapy instead of surgery. Radiation therapy often combines external and internal radiation. External radiation therapy with intensive beam modulation is performed simultaneously with a low dose of chemotherapy. The drug Cisplatin helps to make cancer cells more sensitive to radiation. Then high-dose brachytherapy is performed. This comprehensive treatment significantly prolongs the life of patients with invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix.