The management of locally advanced cervical cancer

Abstract

Purpose of review: Cervical cancer is still a major cause of morbidity and mortality among women worldwide. Surgery and chemoradiation are widely utilized treatments for cervical cancer. Despite the available standard treatment of choice, outcome is suboptimal among patients with LACC. It is vital to integrate the evidence generated from high-quality research work for effective management of these cases. This review intends to critically evaluate the latest evidence supporting the available treatment modalities and to provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances and ongoing research in the management of LACC.

Recent findings: Research advances in imaging and radiotherapy technologies, incorporating imaging into brachytherapy planning, use of newer targeted agents, chemotherapy intensification and immunotherapy are some of the new therapeutic options that have been in the forefront of research to improve the outcome of patients with LACC.

Summary: Advanced imaging modalities are increasingly being utilized to tailor treatments. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery does not improve outcomes in FIGO Stage IB2-IIB. Although cisplatin-based concurrent chemoradiation is the standard of care, more aggressive systemic therapies (neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy and chemoradiation) and use of newer agents, still remains investigational.