Overview
Stage 4 Endometrial Cancer is cancer that began in the tissue lining of the uterus and has spread beyond your pelvis. Also referred to as Metastatic Endometrial Cancer. Stage 4 is divided into Stage 4A and Stage 4B based on how far the cancer has spread.
Understanding your Stage 4 Endometrial Cancer diagnosis will help you partner with your doctors to make the best treatment choice for you. Tap “Listen Now” for an overview of Stage 4 Endometrial Cancer.
- Stage 4A Endometrial Cancer
- Stage 4B Endometrial Cancer
Overview
Stage 4A Endometrial Cancer diagnosis means that the cancer, shown here at the bottom of the image in blue, has spread into your bladder and/or into your bowel wall.
What Tests Will I Need and Why?
Blood and Imaging tests are done to understand your general health, confirm your diagnosis and determine your cancer stage.
Tissue analysis is also typically done to identify certain biomarkers, which is critical to finding the best treatment option for you. In Endometrial Cancer, there are 2 common biomarkers that can be found: Microsatellite Instability High (MSI-H) and HER2. 30% of Endometrial Cancers have MSI-H.
If your treatment team has not already performed tests to determine your cancer’s features, please ask your doctor when these tests will be performed.
Re-read this summary as needed and then tap, “Compare My Treatment Options Now“. Our unique Comparison Page will help you understand your FDA-approved treatment options including, who can help you pay for your treatment, where and how each is given and what side-effects you may experience.
Cancer Research U.K. CC BY-SA 4
Overview
Stage 4B Endometrial Cancer diagnosis means that the primary cancer has spread to your lymph nodes outside of your pelvis and abdomen, or to other organs in your body such as your liver, lungs or bones.
What Tests Will I Need and Why?
Blood and Imaging tests are done to understand your general health, confirm your diagnosis and determine your cancer stage.
Tissue analysis is also typically done to identify certain biomarkers, which is critical to finding the best treatment option for you. In Endometrial Cancer, there are 2 common biomarkers that can be found: Microsatellite Instability High (MSI-H) and HER2. 30% of Endometrial Cancers have MSI-H.
If your treatment team has not already performed tests to determine your cancer’s features, please ask your doctor when these tests will be performed.
Re-read this summary as needed and then tap, “Compare My Treatment Options Now“. Our unique Comparison Page will help you understand your FDA-approved treatment options including, who can help you pay for your treatment, where and how each is given and what side-effects you may experience.
Cancer Research U.K. CC BY-SA 4
Commonly Searched Questions
Stage 4 Endometrial Cancer Definition
Stage 4 endometrial cancer is defined as cancer that has spread beyond the pelvis to distant parts of the body. This stage is further divided into two sub-stages. In Stage 4A, the cancer has spread to the bladder or rectum. Stage 4B indicates that the cancer has metastasized to distant organs, such as the lungs, liver, or other distant sites. At this stage, the cancer has moved beyond the original site and surrounding areas, making it more challenging to treat.
Source: Cancer.org
Stage 4 Endometrial Cancer Recurrence Rate
The recurrence rate for Stage 4 endometrial cancer is notably high, reflecting the cancer’s advanced nature. The recurrence rate is influenced by various factors, including the specific characteristics of the cancer, the treatments received, and individual patient factors. Generally, patients with Stage 4 endometrial cancer may have a recurrence rate of over 50%, depending on these variables. This high rate underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and follow-up care after initial treatment. For the most accurate and personalized information, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.
Source: Cancer.org
Stage 4 Endometrial Cancer Prevention
While specific prevention strategies for Stage 4 endometrial cancer, which is advanced and has spread to distant parts of the body, are not applicable, general strategies to reduce the risk of developing endometrial cancer include:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity increases the risk of endometrial cancer.
- Manage Diabetes: Proper management of diabetes can help reduce cancer risk.
- Use Birth Control Pills: Oral contraceptives may reduce the risk.
- Discuss Hormone Therapy: Talk to your doctor about the risks of hormone replacement therapy.
Regular gynecological check-ups can also aid in early detection and managing risk factors.
Source: Cancer.org
Stage 4 Endometrial Cancer Survival Rate
According to SEER data, Stage 4 Endometrial Cancer has a survival rate of 18.4%. For example, if the 5-year relative survival rate for a specific stage of endometrial cancer is 18.4%, it means that patients who have that cancer are, on average, about 18.4% as likely as patients who don’t have that cancer to live for at least 5 years after being diagnosed.
Source: Cancer.gov
Stage 4 Endometrial Cancer Symptoms
Along with unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge, you may have pelvic or belly pain. Other signs include bloating, pain during sex, feeling full quickly when eating, and changes in your bowel or bladder habits.
You may also have symptoms in the areas where cancer has spread, such as pain in your bones or shortness of breath.
Source: Cancer.org
Stage 4 Endometrial Cancer Treatment
In most cases of stage 4 endometrial cancer, cancer has spread too far for it all to be removed with surgery. A hysterectomy and removal of both fallopian tubes and ovaries may still be done to prevent excessive bleeding. Radiation therapy may also be used for this reason.
Source: Cancer.org