An update on post-treatment surveillance and diagnosis of recurrence in women with gynecologic malignancies: Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) recommendations

Abstract

Gynecologic cancers account for ~12% of all new cancer cases in women and ~15% of all female cancer survivors. Current and continued advances within the field have resulted in long-term outcomes and a high rate of survivors. Therefore determining the most cost-effective clinical surveillance for detection of recurrence is critical. Unfortunately, there has been a paucity of research regarding the most effective strategies for surveillance after patients have achieved a complete response. Currently, most recommendations are based on retrospective studies and expert opinion. Taking a thorough history, performing a thorough examination, and educating cancer survivors about concerning symptoms are the most effective methods for the detection of most gynecologic cancer recurrences. There is very little evidence that routine cytology or imaging improves the ability to detect gynecologic cancer recurrence that will impact cure or response rates to salvage therapy. This article provides an update on surveillance for gynecologic cancer recurrence in women who have had a complete response to primary cancer therapy.

Keywords: Cytology; Gynecologic cancer; Imaging; Pap test; Surveillance; Tumor markers.