Cervical Cancer: Exploring Pathophysiology, Prognosis and Therapies

This report provides a comprehensive overview of cervical cancer, starting with its historical perspective, including the evolution of screening methods from symptom-based detection to Dr. George Papanicolaou’s screening approach. It delves into the pathophysiology of the disease, emphasizing the role of HPV infections and their impact on cellular transformation. The prognosis of cervical cancer is discussed in relation to factors such as cancer stage, patient response to therapy, and overall health. Current therapies, including various surgical options like conization, hysterectomy, and pelvic exenteration, as well as HPV vaccines, are explored. Furthermore, the report examines future treatment possibilities, such as experimental vaccines designed to bolster the immune system against HPV and innovative surgical techniques like sentinel node biopsy. The importance of regular follow-up care to detect recurrent cervical cancer is also highlighted, with a focus on utilizing clinical trials to explore new treatment methods.