Investigations that may be recommended can include:
- A pelvic examination in the clinic
- Blood tests
- A CT scan
- An MRI scan
- A PET Scan
- Ultrasound scan – this is a procedure which involves examining a part of the body with an ultrasound machine
- Ultrasound scan with a biopsy – this is a procedure which involves examining a part of the body with an ultrasound machine and if a biopsy is required, a needle is inserted through the skin to take away a small amount of tissue
- Hysteroscopy
- Colposcopy – this is a procedure to find out whether there are abnormal cells on the cervix (neck of the womb). It is usually carried out if there has been an abnormal smear. A microscope (colposcope) with a strong light is used to look at the cervix. The colposcope doesn’t enter the vagina and remains outside the body. Different liquids are dabbed onto the cervix to help identify any areas of abnormal cells. If an abnormal area is found then a small sample of tissue (biopsy) will be taken from the surface of the cervix. A biopsy is about the size of a pinhead. It can cause slight stinging and it should not be painful. The procedure is usually carried out in the outpatient department, while you are awake
- Examination Under Anaesthetic (EUA) – this is a day case operation where examination of the vagina, cervix and occasionally the bladder are carried out under a general anaesthetic. Biopsies may be taken from these areas
Once the diagnosis is known patients are seen in clinic by a gynaecology cancer specialist to provide information about the type of gynaecological cancer and potential treatment plan.
Treatments
The treatment options for cervical cancer include the following on their own or in combination:
Surgery
Radiotherapy
- Cervical brachytherapy
- The radiotherapy department at Leeds Cancer Centre
- Radiotherapy for cervical, endometrial, ovarian, vaginal and vulval cancer
Drug therapy (including chemotherapy)
- The chemotherapy service at Leeds Cancer Centre
When treatment is complete a member of the team will discuss what happens next.
The Gynaecology Cancer Nurse Specialist team are available for advice and can be contacted on 0113 2067820 or e-mail [email protected].