Dr. Le Nhat Nguyen, from the Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit at Tam Anh General Hospital - District 8, reported that Chi's endometrium had a tumor invading more than half the thickness of the myometrium. She was diagnosed with stage 1B endometrial cancer according to the FIGO classification. The malignant tumor, developing from the cells of the uterine lining, had deeply invaded the myometrium but had not yet spread to the cervix or ovaries.

As Chi, a mother of three, did not wish to have more children, doctors performed a total hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, removing 28 pelvic lymph nodes. Post-operative biopsy results confirmed grade 3 endometrial cancer with inflamed lymph nodes. "This means the malignant cells have not metastasized to the lymph nodes, but there is a high risk of recurrence and metastasis," Dr. Nguyen explained. Therefore, Chi needs to continue optimal medical treatment and regular check-ups for monitoring.

Surgical team performing cancer surgery on a patient. Illustration photo: *Tam Anh General Hospital*

Endometrial cancer is a common cancer in women. It can occur at any age, most commonly between 50 and 70 or after menopause. The disease often has no clear symptoms in the early stages and is easily overlooked or mistaken for other gynecological issues. Common symptoms include abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause, severe pelvic or lower abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, painful intercourse, and persistent fatigue.

The cause of endometrial cancer remains unclear. However, an imbalance of estrogen and progesterone can cause changes in the endometrium, increasing the risk of cancer cell development. Other conditions affecting ovulation, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), obesity, and diabetes, can also alter hormone levels, increasing the risk.

Endometrial cancer treatment depends on the stage, progression, the patient's health, and their wishes. Treatment options include total hysterectomy, laparoscopic surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy.

Patients should follow their doctor's instructions and have regular check-ups to monitor their health and prevent recurrence or disease progression. A healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and protein, along with adequate hydration, and regular light exercise (walking, yoga, swimming) for at least 15-30 minutes daily can improve health and aid recovery.

Ngoc Chau

* The patient's name has been changed