OB/GYN CT Appearances

Cervical Cancer CT Findings

• Tumor arising from cervical canal with variable extension into stroma
• Hypoattenuating or isoattenuating to normal cervical stroma
• Primary tumor has low attenuation areas
• Cervix enlarged >3.5 cm

Other Information About Cervical Cancer

Etiology:

• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• Risk increases for people with weakened immune systems, people who smoke, and those with long-term use of oral contraceptives

Epidemiology:

• Most common between the ages of 35 and 44
• Can occur at any age

Presentation:

• Typically starts as asymptomatic
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding (after intercourse, between periods, after menopause)
• Vaginal discharge that is watery, bloody, and/or has a foul odor
• Dyspareunia

Prognosis:

• 5-year survival rates are:
  • Localized: 91%
  • Regional: 60%
  • Distant: 19%
  • All SEER stages combined: 67%

Related Pearls: Cervical Cancer