Clinical aspects of uterine papillary serous carcinoma

Abstract

Purpose of review: We review the demographic and clinicopathologic characteristics, and prognosis of women diagnosed with uterine papillary serous carcinoma, with a focus on clinical management.

Recent findings: Pathologic evaluation of postmenopausal bleeding is preferred for patients who fit the profile of a high-risk endometrial cancer such as uterine papillary serous carcinoma. Women diagnosed with endometrial cancer who fit this profile and all women with uterine papillary serous carcinoma should undergo comprehensive surgical staging and aggressive cytoreduction of extrauterine disease. Adjuvant therapy remains controversial. Several recent investigations reported on the potential benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy, with many recommending additional loco-regional radiation.

Summary: Despite the lack of randomized trials on uterine papillary serous carcinoma, several recent reports have provided insight into the diagnosis, surgical management, and adjuvant treatment of this high-risk endometrial cancer.