Being diagnosed with endometrial cancer can feel overwhelming. But the good news is—if detected early, it’s one of the most treatable types of cancer. The key is knowing what to expect at each stage and having the right doctor to guide you through it.
Here, Dr. Joydeep Ghosh, a trusted medical oncologist in Kolkata, breaks down treatment options based on how far the cancer has spread.
Stage I: Cancer Is Limited to the Uterus
This is the earliest stage, and the outcomes are usually excellent with prompt treatment.
Most patients undergo a total hysterectomy, where the uterus and cervix are removed. Often, the ovaries and fallopian tubes are also taken out to prevent future spread. Depending on the risk level, doctors may also remove lymph nodes to check if the cancer has spread.
If there’s any concern about recurrence, radiation therapy may be advised after surgery. This is usually a precaution to reduce the chances of the cancer coming back.
Stage II: Cancer Has Reached the Cervix
In this stage, the cancer has grown into the cervix but hasn’t spread outside the uterus.
Treatment usually involves a radical hysterectomy, which removes the uterus, cervix, and surrounding tissue. Lymph node dissection is often part of the procedure to check for further spread.
Post-surgery, most patients receive radiation therapy—sometimes externally (like a focused X-ray) and sometimes internally (brachytherapy). In higher-risk cases, chemotherapy is also added.
At this point, having a skilled medical oncologist like Dr. Ghosh can help tailor the treatment plan to your needs.
Stage III: Cancer Has Spread Within the Pelvis
Stage III means the cancer has moved beyond the uterus—to the ovaries, vagina, or nearby lymph nodes.
The first step is usually surgery to remove as much of the cancer as possible. This includes the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and affected lymph nodes.
Then comes a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy to destroy any remaining cancer cells. If surgery isn’t possible, doctors may use targeted radiation or special medications to manage the disease.
Stage IV: Cancer Has Spread to Distant Organs
At this advanced stage, cancer may have spread to the bladder, bowel, lungs, liver, or bones. Surgery may still be done to control symptoms like heavy bleeding, but it’s often not a cure at this point.
Chemotherapy becomes the main line of treatment. Radiation therapy may also be used to manage pain or control bleeding. If the cancer is hormone-sensitive, hormone therapy may help slow it down.
Newer options like targeted therapy and immunotherapy can also help in selected cases. Clinical trials may offer access to advanced treatment methods that are not yet widely available.
Recurrent Endometrial Cancer: What Then?
If cancer returns after initial treatment, it’s called a recurrence. Treatment depends on where and how much it has come back.
- Local recurrence may be treated with surgery or radiation.
- If the cancer has spread further, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or clinical trials may be considered.
Dr. Joydeep Ghosh ensures that each recurrence case is handled with a fresh perspective, focused on comfort and results.
Final Thoughts
The treatment of endometrial cancer depends on its stage—but with early detection and a clear plan, many women go on to live full and healthy lives. Whether you’re just starting treatment or exploring your options after recurrence, expert guidance is key.
If you’re looking for a compassionate and experienced medical oncologist in Kolkata, Dr. Joydeep Ghosh is here to help you every step of the way.