Mechanistic Approach to the Pathophysiology and Genes Associated with Uterine Cancer: A Review
Keywords:
Uterine cancer, Gene expression, Pathophysiology, Risk factors, Diagnosis, Surgical interventionAbstract
One of the most common causes of cancers of the female reproductive tract is uterine cancer and the rate of spread in both
developed and developing countries is alarming, hence, the need for medical intervention. The pathogenesis of uterine can
cer/endometrial carcinomas is key as well as the implicated genes in the diagnosis. This review focuses more on the molec
ular aspect (involving gene expression) in uterine cancer. However, some of the risk factors associated with uterine cancer
have been discussed which include, obesity, early menarche, diabetes (Type 2), use of intrauterine device, family history
and women who have had breast or ovarian cancer and endometrial hyperplasia in time past. Moreover, early diagnosis and
adequate intervention have been proven to be safe in affected individuals (women). Mutation in the genetic makeup leads to disease onset when not properly corrected. As in the case of endometrial cancer, several mismatched genes have been
identified such as MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, deletion of EPCAM found in the family history with Lynch syndrome. PTEN have also
been mutated in several patients. However, the diagnosis of endometrial cancer can be done based on clinical, radiological
and histo-pathological examination. All three will give a concise and informative description about the progression of endo
metrial cancer in order to administer proper treatment and progression. The standard evaluation of EC is the radiological
examination and histopathological examination involving the pelvic ultrasonography and endometrial biopsy or dilatation
and curettage with or without hysteroscopy.
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