GYN Cancers alison lecture Study Notes

GYN Cancers Overview

  • Focus on cervical, endometrial (uterine), ovarian, and vaginal cancers.

  • Discuss perioperative management and treatments similar to previous discussions.

Cancer Statistics

  • Ovarian Cancer:

    • Approximately 21,000 women diagnosed each year in the United States.

    • Around 13,000 deaths resulting from ovarian cancer annually.

    • Most diagnoses occur in women over the age of 63.

  • Cervical Cancer:

    • About 13,000 new cases reported last year.

    • Approximately 4,000 deaths attributed to cervical cancer.

  • Endometrial Cancer (Uterine Cancer):

    • Around 70,000 new cases and 13,000 deaths annually.

  • Vaginal Cancer:

    • Typically diagnosed in women over the age of 69.

    • Frequently associated with HPV infections.

Importance of Early Detection

  • Early detecting and screening can catch many GYN cancers before they progress significantly.

  • Advocacy for patient education on cancer symptoms and screening.

Nursing Assessment Overview

  • A thorough history is crucial, focusing on:

    • Bowel and bladder dysfunction due to proximity of these organs to reproductive structures.

    • Potential metastasis or pressure from tumors affecting bowel or bladder.

    • Symptoms of Concern:

      • Abdominal and pelvic pain: Often late-stage indicators but can also be chronic issues such as dysmenorrhea.

      • Patients may overlook significant pain due to history of painful periods.

      • Feelings of nausea and gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea are common complaints.

  • Clinical Considerations:

    • History of pregnancy and breastfeeding can influence risk factors.

    • Early onset of menstruation correlates with a higher prevalence of cancer.

    • Hormone replacement therapy and infertility treatments may also increase cancer risk, specifically regarding hormone exposure.

Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer

  • Identifying Risk Factors:

    • Early sexual activity increases risk due to exposure to infections and STIs.

    • Multiple sexual partners may elevate the risk of STI transmission.

    • Specific STIs of concern:

      • Chlamydia

      • HPV (human papillomavirus) is the primary contributor to cervical cancer.

    • Individuals with HIV and those with immunosuppression have a higher risk.

    • Long-term use (extended periods) of oral contraceptives increases susceptibility due to hormonal changes.

Clinical Presentation of Cervical Cancer

  • Normal cervix appears healthy but may show changes during biopsy procedures.

    • Abnormal cells may be detected, indicating early signs of cancer.

  • Stages of Cervical Cancer:

    • Stage 1: Abnormal cells present at the cervical opening.

    • Stage 2: Significant inflammation and irritation observed.

    • Stage 3: Tumor visibly present with excretion of viscous fluid; the cancer has advanced further into the cervical structure.

  • Asymptomatic Nature:

    • Early-stage patients are often asymptomatic, highlighting the importance of regular screenings.

    • May present with unusual discharge, mistaken for minor infections.

  • Patient Example:

    • Patient with no prior male sexual partners who developed cervical cancer due to undisclosed HPV exposure through oral intercourse.

    • Faced challenges in obtaining screening and treatment due to lack of awareness surrounding HPV transmission and cervical health.