Rak trzonu macicy
Patofizjologia i mechanizm

Rak trzonu macicy (endometrium) jest najczęstszym nowotworem złośliwym żeńskiego układu rozrodczego w krajach rozwiniętych, stanowiąc około 7% wszystkich nowotworów u kobiet. Patogeneza obejmuje złożone mechanizmy molekularne, hormonalne i genetyczne. Tradycyjna klasyfikacja wyróżnia typ I (endometrioidalny, 80% przypadków, estrogenozależny, lepsze rokowanie) oraz typ II (nieendometrioidalny, estrogenoniezależny, gorsze rokowanie). Nowoczesna klasyfikacja molekularna TCGA dzieli raka na cztery podtypy: CNH (copy number high) z mutacjami TP53 i złym rokowaniem, MSI z defektem naprawy DNA i wysokim obciążeniem mutacyjnym, ultramutowaną z mutacją POLE oraz CNL z niską liczbą kopii. W praktyce klinicznej stosuje się klasyfikację ProMisE, identyfikującą podtypy MMRd, POLE, p53abn i p53wt. Kluczowym czynnikiem ryzyka jest długotrwała ekspozycja na estrogeny bez przeciwwagi progesteronu, co prowadzi do rozrostu endometrium, atypowego rozrostu (EIN) i transformacji nowotworowej. Czynniki zwiększające ryzyko to m.in. otyłość, PCOS, cukrzyca typu 2, HTZ bez progestagenów, tamoksyfen, wczesna menarche, późna menopauza i nulliparitas.

Patogeneza Raka Trzonu Macicy

Rak trzonu macicy (endometrium) to nowotwór złośliwy wywodzący się z komórek nabłonka wyścielającego jamę macicy. Jest to najczęstszy nowotwór złośliwy żeńskiego układu rozrodczego w krajach rozwiniętych, stanowiący około 7% wszystkich nowotworów u kobiet.12 Patogeneza raka endometrium jest złożona i obejmuje wiele mechanizmów molekularnych, hormonalnych oraz zmian genetycznych.

Klasyfikacja molekularna i histologiczna

Historycznie rak endometrium klasyfikowano na dwa główne typy w oparciu o cechy histologiczne. Obecnie jednak, na podstawie najnowszych badań, coraz częściej stosuje się klasyfikację molekularną uwzględniającą mutacje genetyczne i zmiany liczby kopii genów.34

Tradycyjnie wyróżniano dwa typy raka endometrium:

  • Typ I (endometrioidalny) – stanowi około 80% przypadków, jest związany z działaniem estrogenów, występuje głównie u młodszych kobiet, charakteryzuje się niższym stopniem złośliwości histologicznej i lepszym rokowaniem56
  • Typ II (nieendometrioidalny) – obejmuje raka surowiczego, jasnokomórkowego oraz niezróżnicowanego, nie jest zależny od estrogenów, występuje głównie u starszych kobiet, charakteryzuje się wyższym stopniem złośliwości histologicznej i gorszym rokowaniem78

Nowsza klasyfikacja molekularna oparta na badaniu TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) wyróżnia cztery podtypy molekularne raka endometrium:9

  • Grupa z dużą liczbą kopii (CNH – copy number high) – zawiera większość wysoko złośliwych, agresywnych nowotworów, w tym wszystkie raki surowicze trzonu macicy i około 25% wysoko zróżnicowanych raków endometrioidalnych. Rokowanie w tej grupie jest niekorzystne. Większość tych guzów ma patogenetyczne mutacje w genie TP53. Występują w nich również częste mutacje somatyczne w genach PIK3CA, FBXW7 i PPP2R1A10
  • Grupa z niestabilnością mikrosatelitarną (MSI) – guzy te mają defekty naprawy niesparowanych zasad DNA i obciążenie mutacyjne około 10-krotnie większe niż ogólne tło mutacyjne. Ze względu na wysokie obciążenie mutacyjne, trudno jest odróżnić mutacje przygodne od kierunkowych. Geny PTEN, ARID1A, PIK3CA, PIK3R1 i RPL22 są często zmutowane w tej grupie11
  • Grupa z mutacją POLE (ultramutowana) – charakteryzuje się wyjątkowo wysoką liczbą mutacji12
  • Grupa z niską liczbą kopii (CNL) – guzy o stosunkowo stabilnym genomie13

W praktyce klinicznej stosuje się również klasyfikację ProMisE (proaktywny molekularny klasyfikator ryzyka dla raka endometrium), która na podstawie badań immunohistochemicznych i sekwencjonowania identyfikuje cztery podtypy molekularne: MMRd (z defektem naprawy niesparowanych zasad DNA), POLE (z mutacją w domenie egzonukleazy POLE), p53abn (z aberrantnym barwieniem p53) i p53wt (z dzikim typem p53).14

Mechanizmy hormonalne w patogenezie raka trzonu macicy

Główną rolę w patogenezie raka endometrium typu I (endometrioidalnego) odgrywa długotrwała ekspozycja na estrogeny, które nie są równoważone przez progesteron (tzw. „estrogeny bez przeciwwagi”).1516 Estrogeny stymulują proliferację komórek endometrium, co prowadzi do nadmiernego rozrostu błony śluzowej macicy.

Mechanizm patogenetyczny obejmuje:17

  • Nieprzerwaną proliferację endometrium stymulowaną hormonalnie przez endogenne lub egzogenne estrogeny bez przeciwwagi progesteronu
  • Progresję przez stany prostego do złożonego rozrostu endometrium
  • Rozwój atypowego rozrostu endometrium (endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia, EIN) – zmiany przednowotworowej
  • Transformację do raka endometrioidalnego charakteryzującego się inwazją podścieliska i mięśniówki

Czynniki prowadzące do zwiększonej ekspozycji na estrogeny bez przeciwwagi obejmują:1819

  • Otyłość – tkanka tłuszczowa produkuje enzym aromatazę, który przekształca krążące androgeny w estrogeny, prowadząc do hiperestrogenizmu obwodowego. Kobiety z nadwagą 50 funtów mają 10-krotnie większe ryzyko rozwoju raka endometrium2021
  • Zespół policystycznych jajników (PCOS) – związany z przewlekłym brakiem owulacji i zwiększonym poziomem estrogenów. Zwiększa ryzyko raka endometrium około 5-krotnie2223
  • Cukrzyca typu 2 i hiperinsulinemia – insulina wzmacnia aktywność IGF-1, zwiększając aktywność mitotyczną w gruczołach i podścielisku. Nadmiar insuliny zwiększa poziom wolnego testosteronu we krwi poprzez zmniejszenie produkcji globuliny wiążącej hormony płciowe (SHBG) w wątrobie24
  • Hormonalna terapia zastępcza (HTZ) – stosowanie samych estrogenów bez progestagenów. Nieuzupełniona estrogenowa HTZ może zwiększać ryzyko raka endometrium nawet 70-krotnie25
  • Leczenie tamoksyfenem – lek stosowany w leczeniu raka piersi działa jako antagonista estrogenów w tkance piersi, ale jako agonista w tkance endometrium. Zwiększa ryzyko raka endometrium 2-3 krotnie2627
  • Wczesne menarche i późna menopauza – wydłużają okres narażenia na estrogeny28
  • Brak ciąż (nulliparitas) – wiąże się z brakiem fizjologicznego równoważenia estrogenów przez progesteron podczas ciąży29

Po menopauzie organizm przestaje produkować progesteron, ale nadal wytwarzane są niewielkie ilości estrogenów. Te niezbilansowane estrogeny powodują podział komórek endometrium, co może zwiększać ryzyko raka trzonu macicy.30

Rozrost endometrium jako zmiana przednowotworowa

Rozrost endometrium, szczególnie z atypią, jest ważnym czynnikiem ryzyka i zmianą przednowotworową w rozwoju raka endometrium typu I.31 Klasyfikacja WHO wyróżnia następujące rodzaje rozrostu endometrium:32

  • Rozrost prosty bez atypii – ryzyko progresji do raka wynosi około 1%
  • Rozrost złożony bez atypii – ryzyko progresji do raka wynosi około 3%
  • Rozrost prosty z atypią – ryzyko progresji do raka wynosi około 8%
  • Rozrost złożony z atypią – ryzyko progresji do raka wynosi około 29%

W ciągu 10 lat, 8-30% atypowych rozrostów endometrium rozwija się w raka, podczas gdy tylko 1-3% rozrostów bez atypii ulega takiej transformacji.3334 Rozrost endometrium charakteryzuje się proliferacją gruczołów endometrium, co powoduje większy stosunek gruczołów do podścieliska niż obserwowany w normalnej tkance endometrium.35

Zmiany genetyczne i molekularne w patogenezie raka endometrium

Rak endometrium jest wynikiem wielu mutacji genetycznych, które prowadzą do zaburzeń ścieżek sygnałowych komórkowych. Główne zmiany genetyczne różnią się w zależności od typu histologicznego i molekularnego raka.36

W raku endometrioidalnym (typ I) najczęściej występują:3738

  • Mutacje PTEN – występują w 55% rozrostów i 85% raków. PTEN jest genem supresorowym nowotworów, a jego inaktywacja prowadzi do nadmiernej aktywacji szlaku PI3K/Akt/mTOR, co stymuluje wzrost komórek. Mutacje PTEN są uważane za wczesne zdarzenie w rozwoju raka endometrium o niskim stopniu złośliwości3940
  • Mutacje KRAS – mogą powodować rozrost endometrium i tym samym przyczyniać się do rozwoju raka endometrium typu I41
  • Niestabilność mikrosatelitarna (MSI) – wynikająca z defektów w systemie naprawy błędnie sparowanych zasad DNA, często związana z epigenetycznym wyciszeniem genu MLH142
  • Mutacje ARID1A, PIK3CA, PIK3R1 – wpływają na regulację cyklu komórkowego i proliferację komórek43
  • Mutacje receptora 2 czynnika wzrostu fibroblastów (FGFR2) – występują w 10-12% raków endometrium. FGFR2 to receptor kinazy tyrozynowej zaangażowany w wiele procesów biologicznych i może być potencjalnym celem terapeutycznym44

W raku surowiczym (typ II) najczęściej występują:4546

  • Mutacje TP53 – występują prawie uniwersalnie w raku surowiczym i jego prekursorze, śródnabłonkowym raku endometrium (endometrial intraepithelial carcinoma, EIC). Identyczne mutacje TP53 znaleziono w ogniskach prawidłowo wyglądającego endometrium („sygnatury p53”), dysplazji gruczołowej endometrium oraz związanym z nimi śródnabłonkowym raku surowiczym endometrium i inwazyjnym raku surowiczym endometrium47
  • Nadekspresja HER2/neu – charakterystyczna dla raków typu II48
  • Mutacje somatyczne w genach PPP2R1A, FBXW7, SPOP, CHD4 i TAF1 – również zaangażowane w patogenezę raka surowiczego49

Rak jasnokomórkowy i wysokozróżnicowany rak endometrioidalny mają mniej zdefiniowane etiologie molekularne w porównaniu z niskozróżnicowanym rakiem endometrioidalnym i rakiem surowiczym endometrium.50

Aktywacja receptorów kannabinoidowych typu 1 (CB1R) i typu 2 (CB2R) może również odgrywać rolę w kontroli wzrostu komórek nowotworowych poprzez regulację funkcji mitochondriów i apoptozy komórek.51

Różnice w patogenezie raka endometrioidalnego i surowiczego

W raku endometrium typu I (endometrioidalnym), złośliwa transformacja endometrium wynika z mitogennej stymulacji zmian przednowotworowych EIN, wtórnej do stymulacji estrogenowej.52 Te raki zwykle rozwijają się na podłożu rozrostu endometrium i są zależne od estrogenu.53

W przeciwieństwie do tego, agresywne raki surowicze i jasnokomórkowe endometrium zwykle powstają w atroficznym, spoczynkowym lub słabo proliferującym endometrium poprzez mutacje genetyczne i zmiany epigenetyczne, a nie czynniki hormonalne.5455 Rozwijają się one z endometrium atroficznego, a nie hiperplastycznego.56

Rak surowiczy endometrium często rozwija się z prekursorowej zmiany nazwanej śródnabłonkowym rakiem surowiczym (SEIC), który powstaje w wyniku mutacji inicjujących w genie TP53.57 Jest to potwierdzone przez nieprawidłowe barwienie immunohistochemiczne białka p53 i identyfikację somatycznych mutacji TP53 w zmianach prekursorowych SEIC i chorobie inwazyjnej.58

Mechanizmy immunologiczne w patogenezie raka endometrium

Mechanizmy immunologiczne również przyczyniają się do złośliwej transformacji endometrium.59 Chociaż układ odpornościowy normalnie chroni przed zmianami patogennymi, wyniki badań zidentyfikowały czynniki immunologiczne, które sprzyjają progresji od EIN do raka endometrium, w tym makrofagi związane z guzem, fibroblasty i miofibroblasty.60

Terapie łączące chemioterapię z immunoterapią wykazują synergistyczne efekty w leczeniu raka endometrium. W badaniu klinicznym III fazy dostarlimab w połączeniu z karboplatyną i paklitakselem znacząco wydłużył przeżycie wolne od progresji wśród pacjentek z zaawansowanym (stadium III lub IV) lub nawrotowym rakiem endometrium.61 Całkowite przeżycie po 24 miesiącach wynosiło 71,3% w grupie leczonej dostarlimabem i 56,0% w grupie placebo. Analiza podgrup wykazała istotną korzyść u pacjentek z guzami z wysoką niestabilnością mikrosatelitarną/deficytem naprawy niesparowanych zasad.62

Mechanizmy szerzenia się raka endometrium

Rak endometrium może rozprzestrzeniać się różnymi drogami:6364

  • Bezpośrednie/miejscowe rozprzestrzenianie – odpowiada za większość lokalnego rozszerzenia poza macicę
  • Droga limfatyczna – prowadzi do zajęcia węzłów chłonnych miednicy, okołoaortalnych i rzadko pachwinowych
  • Droga krwionośna – odpowiada za przerzuty do płuc, wątroby, kości i rzadko mózgu
  • Droga otrzewnowa/jajowodowa – prowadzi do wszczepów wewnątrzotrzewnowych, szczególnie w przypadku surowiczego raka endometrium, podobnie jak w raku jajnika

Wczesny wzrost guza charakteryzuje się egzofitycznym i rozprzestrzeniającym się wzorcem. Charakterystyczna jest kruchość i spontaniczne krwawienie, nawet we wczesnych stadiach. Późniejszy wzrost guza charakteryzuje się naciekaniem mięśniówki macicy i wzrostem w kierunku szyjki macicy.65

Mniejsze zróżnicowanie histologiczne wiąże się z większą częstością głębokiej inwazji mięśniówki macicy i przerzutami do węzłów chłonnych. Głębokość inwazji mięśniówki i obecność guza w węzłach chłonnych jest bezpośrednio związana z częstością nawrotów i 5-letnim przeżyciem.6667

Zaangażowanie przestrzeni naczyniowo-limfatycznej w badaniu histopatologicznym koreluje z pozamacicznym i węzłowym rozprzestrzenianiem się guza.68

Czynniki ryzyka i predyspozycje genetyczne

Chociaż większość przypadków raka endometrium jest spowodowana mutacjami sporadycznymi, około 5% przypadków wiąże się z predyspozycjami genetycznymi.6970 Główne zespoły dziedziczne zwiększające ryzyko raka endometrium to:

  • Zespół Lyncha (dziedziczny niepolipowaty rak jelita grubego, HNPCC) – związany z mutacjami w genach naprawy niesparowanych zasad DNA (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, rzadziej EPCAM). Kobiety z zespołem Lyncha mają zwiększone ryzyko rozwoju raka endometrium, który zwykle jest diagnozowany 10-20 lat wcześniej niż rak sporadyczny7172
  • Zespół Cowdena – rzadki zespół związany z mutacjami w genie PTEN, zwiększający ryzyko rozwoju wielu nowotworów, w tym raka endometrium73

Rak endometrium zdaje się być szczególnie podatny na wpływ czynników dietetycznych i stylu życia. Do głównych czynników ryzyka należą:74

  • Spożywanie pokarmów bogatych w tłuszcze zwierzęce i cukry
  • Dieta uboga w warzywa i owoce (szczególnie te bogate w luteinę)
  • Niska aktywność fizyczna

Z kolei czynniki, które mogą zmniejszać ryzyko raka endometrium, to:7576

  • Stosowanie doustnych środków antykoncepcyjnych zawierających progestagen (zmniejsza ryzyko o około 50%)
  • Regularna aktywność fizyczna (zmniejsza ryzyko o 20-30%)
  • Większe spożycie soi (wiąże się z prawie 20% niższym ryzykiem)
  • Spożywanie kawy (kobiety spożywające najwięcej kawy mają 20% niższe ryzyko w porównaniu z tymi, które spożywają jej najmniej)

Podsumowanie mechanizmów patogenetycznych

Patogeneza raka trzonu macicy jest złożonym procesem obejmującym wiele czynników:7778

  1. Mechanizmy hormonalne: Główną rolę odgrywa długotrwała ekspozycja na estrogeny bez przeciwwagi progesteronu, prowadząca do nadmiernej proliferacji endometrium
  2. Zmiany przednowotworowe: Rozwój rozrostu endometrium, szczególnie z atypią (EIN), który jest prekursorem raka endometrioidalnego
  3. Mutacje genetyczne: Zależne od typu histologicznego – w typie endometrioidalnym dominują mutacje PTEN, KRAS, niestabilność mikrosatelitarna; w typie surowiczym – mutacje TP53
  4. Mechanizmy molekularne: Zaburzenia w szlakach sygnałowych PI3K/Akt/mTOR, RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK i innych
  5. Czynniki immunologiczne: Zmiany w mikrośrodowisku guza, rola makrofagów związanych z guzem i innych komórek układu odpornościowego
  6. Predyspozycje genetyczne: Rola dziedzicznych zespołów nowotworowych, takich jak zespół Lyncha i zespół Cowdena
  7. Czynniki związane ze stylem życia: Wpływ diety, aktywności fizycznej i innych czynników środowiskowych

Zrozumienie złożonych mechanizmów patogenetycznych raka trzonu macicy jest kluczowe dla opracowania skutecznych strategii profilaktyki, wczesnego wykrywania i leczenia, w tym nowych terapii celowanych i immunoterapii.7980

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  1. 10.04.2026
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Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Endometrial Cancer Treatment (PDQ®) – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/types/uterine/hp/endometrial-treatment-pdq
    Cancer of the endometrium is the most common gynecologic malignancy in the United States and accounts for 7% of all cancers in women. Most cases are diagnosed at an early stage and are amenable to treatment with surgery alone. […] However, patients with pathological features predictive of a high rate of relapse and patients with extrauterine spread at diagnosis have a high rate of relapse despite adjuvant therapy. The most common cause of death in patients with endometrial cancer is cardiovascular disease because of related metabolic risk factors. […] Factors that lead to an excess of estrogen, including obesity and anovulation, lead to an increase in the deposition of the endometrial lining. These changes may lead to endometrial hyperplasia and, in some cases, endometrial cancer. […] Prolonged, unopposed estrogen exposure has been associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer.
  • #2 Uterine Cancer: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/258148-overview
    Fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) is a tyrosine kinase receptor involved in many biological processes. Mutations in FGFR2 have been reported in up to 10-12% of endometrial carcinomas. Inhibition of FGFR2 could be a therapeutic target in endometrial carcinoma. Gatius et al suggest that FGFR2 has a dual role in the endometrium, inhibiting cell proliferation in normal endometria during the menstrual cycle but acting as an oncogene in endometrial carcinoma. […] Endometrial cancers are divided into 2 classes, each with differing pathophysiology and prognosis. […] More than 80% of endometrial carcinomas are type I and are due to unopposed estrogen stimulation, resulting in a low-grade histology. It is often found in association with atypical endometrial hyperplasia, which is thought to be a precursor lesion. Type II endometrial cancers are thought to be estrogen independent, occurring in older women, with high-grade histologies such as uterine papillary serous or clear cell.
  • #3 Endometrial Cancer – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525981/
    Endometrial cancer is a malignancy originating within the epithelial lining of the uterus. […] The condition has historically been classified into type 1 and type 2 endometrial cancer based on histological characteristics. However, results from recent studies have begun classifying endometrial cancers according to a current molecular subgrouping system. […] The most significant risk factors associated with endometrial cancer development include those that increase long-term exposure to unopposed estrogen (eg, obesity and exogenous estrogen). […] Present consensus holds that the pathogenesis of most low-grade endometrial carcinomas begins with uninterrupted endometrial proliferation, hormonally stimulated by endogenous or exogenous estrogen unopposed by progesterone or progestins, progressing through states of simple to complex forms of endometrial hyperplasia.
  • #4 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Four molecular subgroup of EC defined by mutation burden and copy number alterations have been categorized in a study of 373 cases of EC by the TCGA. Most ECs have near diploid tumors or focal copy number alterations. Moreover, the mutational burden of most ECs reflects that of most solid tumors, with ~2-3 somatic mutations per megabase sequenced. […] In this study, one subgroup was defined by widespread genomic alterations and extensive amplifications and deletions and was termed the copy number high (CNH) group. The CNH group contained most high-grade, aggressive cancers, and included all uterine serous carcinomas and ~25% of the high-grade endometrioid tumors. The clinical outcome of this subgroup was poor. Most of these tumors had pathogenetic mutations in TP53. These tumors also have frequent somatic mutations in PIK3CA, and mutations in FBXW7 and PPP2R1A, which are unique to CNH tumors.
  • #5 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Endometrial cancer (EC) is a malignancy of the inner epithelial lining of the uterus, with an increasing incidence and disease-associated mortality, worldwide. EC comprises distinct histological subtypes and molecular phenotypes. Historically, EC was categorized as Type I (association with unopposed estrogen stimulation, comprising low-grade cells that are more common and have a favorable prognosis) or Type II (not estrogen driven, comprising high-grade cells that are less common and have an unfavorable prognosis). Type I ECs are primarily composed of grade I or grade II endometrioid adenocarcinomas, whereas Type II ECs include grade III endometrioid adenocarcinomas, serous clear cell, undifferentiated and carcinosarcomas. […] EC is often a hormone-sensitive disease thought to commonly arise in the context of excessive estrogenic stimulation of the endometrial lining of the uterus. This estrogenic stimulation leads to mitogenic stimulation, and ultimately, malignant transformation of the endometrial glandular epithelium, and accounts for the development of the more common and lower grade endometrioid ECs. Risk factors for hyperestrogenism include obesity, hormone therapy (such as tamoxifen), ovarian cortical hyperplasia (hyperthecosis), polycystic ovarian syndrome, and hormone-producing tumors. Other histological subtypes of EC, including serous, clear cell, undifferentiated carcinoma and carcinosarcoma, are not as commonly associated with hyperestrogenism.
  • #6 Uterine Cancer: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/258148-overview
    Fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) is a tyrosine kinase receptor involved in many biological processes. Mutations in FGFR2 have been reported in up to 10-12% of endometrial carcinomas. Inhibition of FGFR2 could be a therapeutic target in endometrial carcinoma. Gatius et al suggest that FGFR2 has a dual role in the endometrium, inhibiting cell proliferation in normal endometria during the menstrual cycle but acting as an oncogene in endometrial carcinoma. […] Endometrial cancers are divided into 2 classes, each with differing pathophysiology and prognosis. […] More than 80% of endometrial carcinomas are type I and are due to unopposed estrogen stimulation, resulting in a low-grade histology. It is often found in association with atypical endometrial hyperplasia, which is thought to be a precursor lesion. Type II endometrial cancers are thought to be estrogen independent, occurring in older women, with high-grade histologies such as uterine papillary serous or clear cell.
  • #7 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Endometrial cancer (EC) is a malignancy of the inner epithelial lining of the uterus, with an increasing incidence and disease-associated mortality, worldwide. EC comprises distinct histological subtypes and molecular phenotypes. Historically, EC was categorized as Type I (association with unopposed estrogen stimulation, comprising low-grade cells that are more common and have a favorable prognosis) or Type II (not estrogen driven, comprising high-grade cells that are less common and have an unfavorable prognosis). Type I ECs are primarily composed of grade I or grade II endometrioid adenocarcinomas, whereas Type II ECs include grade III endometrioid adenocarcinomas, serous clear cell, undifferentiated and carcinosarcomas. […] EC is often a hormone-sensitive disease thought to commonly arise in the context of excessive estrogenic stimulation of the endometrial lining of the uterus. This estrogenic stimulation leads to mitogenic stimulation, and ultimately, malignant transformation of the endometrial glandular epithelium, and accounts for the development of the more common and lower grade endometrioid ECs. Risk factors for hyperestrogenism include obesity, hormone therapy (such as tamoxifen), ovarian cortical hyperplasia (hyperthecosis), polycystic ovarian syndrome, and hormone-producing tumors. Other histological subtypes of EC, including serous, clear cell, undifferentiated carcinoma and carcinosarcoma, are not as commonly associated with hyperestrogenism.
  • #8 Theories of Endometrial Carcinogenesis: A Multidisciplinary Approach | Modern Pathology
    https://www.nature.com/articles/3880051
    Type 2 tumors are unrelated to these features, behave aggressively, and lack the progesterone responsiveness of type 1 tumors. […] Histopathologic support for an alternative pathway of endometrial carcinogenesis unrelated to hormone imbalances is derived largely from clinicopathologic studies of serous carcinoma. […] The recognition that AH and endometrioid carcinoma express both estrogen and progesterone receptors is consistent with the status of AH as a precursor lesion and suggests that progesterone therapy may permit the reversal of these lesions in young women seeking to retain fertility. […] EIC is characterized by the replacement of benign surface endometrium and underlying glands by cells with anaplastic nuclei resembling serous carcinoma. […] The development of endometrial hyperplasia and endometrioid carcinoma (type 1 tumors) in women with irregular or anovulatory cycles suggests that prolonged periods without endometrial sloughing may be important in the development of fixed endometrial lesions.
  • #9 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Four molecular subgroup of EC defined by mutation burden and copy number alterations have been categorized in a study of 373 cases of EC by the TCGA. Most ECs have near diploid tumors or focal copy number alterations. Moreover, the mutational burden of most ECs reflects that of most solid tumors, with ~2-3 somatic mutations per megabase sequenced. […] In this study, one subgroup was defined by widespread genomic alterations and extensive amplifications and deletions and was termed the copy number high (CNH) group. The CNH group contained most high-grade, aggressive cancers, and included all uterine serous carcinomas and ~25% of the high-grade endometrioid tumors. The clinical outcome of this subgroup was poor. Most of these tumors had pathogenetic mutations in TP53. These tumors also have frequent somatic mutations in PIK3CA, and mutations in FBXW7 and PPP2R1A, which are unique to CNH tumors.
  • #10 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Four molecular subgroup of EC defined by mutation burden and copy number alterations have been categorized in a study of 373 cases of EC by the TCGA. Most ECs have near diploid tumors or focal copy number alterations. Moreover, the mutational burden of most ECs reflects that of most solid tumors, with ~2-3 somatic mutations per megabase sequenced. […] In this study, one subgroup was defined by widespread genomic alterations and extensive amplifications and deletions and was termed the copy number high (CNH) group. The CNH group contained most high-grade, aggressive cancers, and included all uterine serous carcinomas and ~25% of the high-grade endometrioid tumors. The clinical outcome of this subgroup was poor. Most of these tumors had pathogenetic mutations in TP53. These tumors also have frequent somatic mutations in PIK3CA, and mutations in FBXW7 and PPP2R1A, which are unique to CNH tumors.
  • #11 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Another subgroup of EC was tumors with microsatellite instability (MSI). These tumors have mismatch repair defects and a tumor mutational burden that is ~10-fold greater than that of a general mutational background. These tumors have mutations in many genes owing to their generally high mutation burden, therefore, it can be difficult to differentiate passenger from driver mutations. PTEN, ARID1A, PIK3CA, PIK3R1 and RPL22 are all commonly mutated in the MSI subgroup of EC. Moreover, mutations or epigenetic silencing of MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and less commonly EPCAM, are often responsible for MSI. […] The identification of the molecular subgroups has rapidly changed the way ECs are stratified and treated. Several groups have taken these initial findings from TCGA and extrapolated them for better application to clinical practice. One approach – known as ProMisE (proactive molecular risk classifier for EC) – uses IHC to identify mismatch repair proteins and p53, and sequences the POLE exonuclease domain. ProMisE has identified four molecular subtypes of EC that are analogous but not identical to the four genomic subtypes described in TCGA study: MMRd, DNA POLE (corresponding to the ultramutated (POLE mutated) subtype), p53abn (which demonstrates aberrant p53 immunohistochemical staining and corresponds to the CNH subtype) and p53wt (which corresponds to the CNL subtype). Cases lacking enough information to classify are designated NSMP.
  • #12 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Another subgroup of EC was tumors with microsatellite instability (MSI). These tumors have mismatch repair defects and a tumor mutational burden that is ~10-fold greater than that of a general mutational background. These tumors have mutations in many genes owing to their generally high mutation burden, therefore, it can be difficult to differentiate passenger from driver mutations. PTEN, ARID1A, PIK3CA, PIK3R1 and RPL22 are all commonly mutated in the MSI subgroup of EC. Moreover, mutations or epigenetic silencing of MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and less commonly EPCAM, are often responsible for MSI. […] The identification of the molecular subgroups has rapidly changed the way ECs are stratified and treated. Several groups have taken these initial findings from TCGA and extrapolated them for better application to clinical practice. One approach – known as ProMisE (proactive molecular risk classifier for EC) – uses IHC to identify mismatch repair proteins and p53, and sequences the POLE exonuclease domain. ProMisE has identified four molecular subtypes of EC that are analogous but not identical to the four genomic subtypes described in TCGA study: MMRd, DNA POLE (corresponding to the ultramutated (POLE mutated) subtype), p53abn (which demonstrates aberrant p53 immunohistochemical staining and corresponds to the CNH subtype) and p53wt (which corresponds to the CNL subtype). Cases lacking enough information to classify are designated NSMP.
  • #13 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Another subgroup of EC was tumors with microsatellite instability (MSI). These tumors have mismatch repair defects and a tumor mutational burden that is ~10-fold greater than that of a general mutational background. These tumors have mutations in many genes owing to their generally high mutation burden, therefore, it can be difficult to differentiate passenger from driver mutations. PTEN, ARID1A, PIK3CA, PIK3R1 and RPL22 are all commonly mutated in the MSI subgroup of EC. Moreover, mutations or epigenetic silencing of MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and less commonly EPCAM, are often responsible for MSI. […] The identification of the molecular subgroups has rapidly changed the way ECs are stratified and treated. Several groups have taken these initial findings from TCGA and extrapolated them for better application to clinical practice. One approach – known as ProMisE (proactive molecular risk classifier for EC) – uses IHC to identify mismatch repair proteins and p53, and sequences the POLE exonuclease domain. ProMisE has identified four molecular subtypes of EC that are analogous but not identical to the four genomic subtypes described in TCGA study: MMRd, DNA POLE (corresponding to the ultramutated (POLE mutated) subtype), p53abn (which demonstrates aberrant p53 immunohistochemical staining and corresponds to the CNH subtype) and p53wt (which corresponds to the CNL subtype). Cases lacking enough information to classify are designated NSMP.
  • #14 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Another subgroup of EC was tumors with microsatellite instability (MSI). These tumors have mismatch repair defects and a tumor mutational burden that is ~10-fold greater than that of a general mutational background. These tumors have mutations in many genes owing to their generally high mutation burden, therefore, it can be difficult to differentiate passenger from driver mutations. PTEN, ARID1A, PIK3CA, PIK3R1 and RPL22 are all commonly mutated in the MSI subgroup of EC. Moreover, mutations or epigenetic silencing of MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and less commonly EPCAM, are often responsible for MSI. […] The identification of the molecular subgroups has rapidly changed the way ECs are stratified and treated. Several groups have taken these initial findings from TCGA and extrapolated them for better application to clinical practice. One approach – known as ProMisE (proactive molecular risk classifier for EC) – uses IHC to identify mismatch repair proteins and p53, and sequences the POLE exonuclease domain. ProMisE has identified four molecular subtypes of EC that are analogous but not identical to the four genomic subtypes described in TCGA study: MMRd, DNA POLE (corresponding to the ultramutated (POLE mutated) subtype), p53abn (which demonstrates aberrant p53 immunohistochemical staining and corresponds to the CNH subtype) and p53wt (which corresponds to the CNL subtype). Cases lacking enough information to classify are designated NSMP.
  • #15 Endometrial Cancer – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525981/
    Endometrial cancer is a malignancy originating within the epithelial lining of the uterus. […] The condition has historically been classified into type 1 and type 2 endometrial cancer based on histological characteristics. However, results from recent studies have begun classifying endometrial cancers according to a current molecular subgrouping system. […] The most significant risk factors associated with endometrial cancer development include those that increase long-term exposure to unopposed estrogen (eg, obesity and exogenous estrogen). […] Present consensus holds that the pathogenesis of most low-grade endometrial carcinomas begins with uninterrupted endometrial proliferation, hormonally stimulated by endogenous or exogenous estrogen unopposed by progesterone or progestins, progressing through states of simple to complex forms of endometrial hyperplasia.
  • #16 Endometrial Cancer in Reproductive-Aged Females: Etiology and Pathogenesis
    https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/12/4/886
    Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic malignancy in developed countries, and the incidence is rising in premenopausal females. Type I EC is more common than Type II EC (80% vs. 20%) and is associated with a hyperestrogenic state. Estrogen unopposed by progesterone is considered to be the main driving factor in the pathogenesis of EC. […] Studies have consistently demonstrated that premenopausal women with a hyperestrogenic state are at an increased risk of developing EC. The hypothesis of the unopposed estrogen effect causing endometrial hyperplasia and neoplasia has been described since the 1970s. The unopposed estrogen hypothesis, first described by Key et al. (1988), is a widely accepted theory stating that women with high circulating levels of endogenous estrogen unopposed by progesterone run an increased risk of developing EC. […] Hyperestrogenic states, or increased estrogen exposure, have been proven to be the main driver in the development of Type I EC.
  • #17 Endometrial Cancer | Treatment & Management | Point of Care
    https://www.statpearls.com/point-of-care/21102
    Present consensus holds that the pathogenesis of most low-grade endometrial carcinomas begins with uninterrupted endometrial proliferation, hormonally stimulated by endogenous or exogenous estrogen unopposed by progesterone or progestins, progressing through states of simple to complex forms of endometrial hyperplasia. […] Arising in this milieu, histologically recognizable atypical premalignant lesions, defined as endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia (EIN), formerly termed atypical endometrial hyperplasia, may transform into endometrioid carcinoma, characterized by stromal and myometrial invasion, PTEN mutations, and often KRAS2 mutations, microsatellite instability caused by mismatch repair deficiencies (MMRd) found in Lynch syndrome, and near-diploid karyotype. […] Because of this underlying pathologic mechanism, endometrial cancer is more frequently categorized by molecular subgroups based on mutation burden and copy number alterations rather than histological findings.
  • #18 Womb (uterus) cancer | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cancer/cancer-types-in-adults/womb-uterus-cancer/
    Cancer begins with a change (mutation) in the structure of the DNA in cells, which can affect how they grow. This means cells grow and reproduce uncontrollably, producing a lump of tissue called a tumour. […] Its not clear exactly what causes womb cancer, but certain things can increase your risk of developing the condition. […] A hormone imbalance is one of the most important risks for womb cancer. Specifically, your risk is increased if you have high levels of a hormone called oestrogen in your body. […] The risk of developing womb cancer is linked to the body’s exposure to oestrogen. Oestrogen is one of the hormones that regulate the reproductive system. […] After the menopause, the body stops producing progesterone. However, there are still small amounts of oestrogen being produced. This unopposed oestrogen causes the cells of the endometrium to divide, which can increase the risk of womb cancer.
  • #19 Endometrial cancer: Pathophysiology, diagnosis and management – IJCAAP
    https://www.ijcap.in/html-article/18885
    The ovaries release the two principal female hormones, oestrogen and progesterone; any alterations in the balance between these two hormones affect the health of the endometrium similar to irregular ovulation patterns, a disease in which your body produces more oestrogen than progesterone might elevate the chances of developing endometrial cancer. The risk of endometrial cancer is raised with the use of only estrogen hormones after menopause. […] Long-term oestrogen exposure without progestin opposition is a significant predictor for type I EC. Both endogenous and exogenous oestrogen exposure are possible. Hormone replacement therapy is one form of exogenous oestrogen exposure. Obesity, estrogen-producing tumors, and persistent anovulation are all risk factors for endogenous oestrogen exposure.
  • #20 Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer – UChicago Medicine
    https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/cancer/types-treatments/uterine-cancer
    Obesity is an important risk factor for uterine cancer that can be modified. Extra stored fat in a body increases estrogen levels, causes inflammation and can promote cancer development. […] Most common endometrial endometrioid cancers are estrogen dependent. […] Women who are 50 pounds overweight are 10 times more likely to develop endometrial cancer. […] Managing weight through appropriate diet and increasing physical activity can potentially decrease risk for this cancer.
  • #21 Endometrial cancer: Pathophysiology, diagnosis and management – IJCAAP
    https://www.ijcap.in/html-article/18885
    Obesity is the primary risk factor for endometrial hyperplasia developing into malignant cancer. Obesity results in excessive peripheral conversion of androgens to estrone in adipose cells; this extra oestrogen promotes endometrial lining growth and frequently results in carcinogenesis. Moreover, prolonged anovulation is more prevalent in obese premenopausal women, which is also a major contributing factor for overexposure of estrogen. […] Tamoxifen therapy has been linked to an increased likelihood of developing EC even while it considerably lowers the risk of breast cancer and breast cancer recurrence. Tamoxifen is a selective oestrogen receptor modulator (SERM), which acts as an oestrogen antagonist in breast tissues but as an agonist in bone and endometrial tissues. Based on the majority of research, tamoxifen-using women had a 2-3 fold greater risk of developing EC than the general population.
  • #22 Endometrial Cancer – Life Extension
    https://www.lifeextension.com/protocols/cancer/uterine-endometrial-cancer?srsltid=AfmBOooQviI0wmZJQLdJEndJ7hPEAWL5kCyUngKr5O85FWlJbGlmEQln
    It is important to recognize that the levels of estrogen and progesterone need to be balanced against each other. In fact, unopposed conventional estrogen replacement therapy increases the risk of endometrial cancer by up to 70-fold, but adding progesterone reduces risk to equal that of the population in general. […] The development of endometrial cancer is not only caused by unopposed estrogen therapy, but also by endogenous estrogens (estrogens produced by the body). A number of studies have shown that fat stores can generate estrogen precursors that are able to drive endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma. Some studies have shown that as many as 40% of endometrial cancer cases may be attributable to obesity. […] Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal-metabolic disorder, has been shown to promote endometrial cancer development; it is associated with about a 5-fold increased risk on average across several studies.
  • #23 Womb (uterus) cancer | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cancer/cancer-types-in-adults/womb-uterus-cancer/
    Women and anyone with a womb who are treated with tamoxifen (a hormone treatment for breast cancer) can be at an increased risk of developing womb cancer. […] Women and anyone with a womb with diabetes are twice as likely to develop womb cancer as those without the condition. […] Women and anyone with a womb with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are at a higher risk of developing womb cancer, as they have high levels of oestrogen in their bodies. […] Endometrial hyperplasia is when the lining of the womb becomes thicker. It may be increase risk of developing womb cancer.
  • #24 Endometrial cancer: Pathophysiology, diagnosis and management – IJCAAP
    https://www.ijcap.in/html-article/18885
    Genetic mutations associated to molecular signalling pathways plays important role in the aetiology of EC. This molecular pathways are hampered by circumstances including suppression of cell proliferation, apoptosis, elevation of telomere reverse transcription, and DNA synthesis abnormalities. Genetic Alteration in the phosphate and tensin homolog (PTEN), Catenin beta-1 (CTNNB1), Kirsten rat sarcoma (KRAS) viral oncogene homolog, AT-rich interaction domain 1A (ARID1A),and mismatch repair (MMR) molecular pathways have a substantial impact on ECs. […] Hyperinsulinism is linked to diabetes mellitus or PCOS and plays a significant role in the development of cancer, as it amplifies mitotic activity in the glands and stroma by boosting IGF-1 activity. Excess insulin increases blood free testosterone levels by reducing the formation of the liver sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), enhances the production of androgens driven by LH and IGF-I, and increases serum IGF-I bioactivity by suppressing the development of IGF-binding proteins. Women with EC also have insulin binding sites expressed in their endometrial stroma. It follows that excessive insulin signalling can cause endometrial alterations that are pro-proliferative, pro-survival, and inflammatory changes similar to those caused by unopposed oestrogen.
  • #25 Endometrial Cancer – Life Extension
    https://www.lifeextension.com/protocols/cancer/uterine-endometrial-cancer?srsltid=AfmBOooQviI0wmZJQLdJEndJ7hPEAWL5kCyUngKr5O85FWlJbGlmEQln
    It is important to recognize that the levels of estrogen and progesterone need to be balanced against each other. In fact, unopposed conventional estrogen replacement therapy increases the risk of endometrial cancer by up to 70-fold, but adding progesterone reduces risk to equal that of the population in general. […] The development of endometrial cancer is not only caused by unopposed estrogen therapy, but also by endogenous estrogens (estrogens produced by the body). A number of studies have shown that fat stores can generate estrogen precursors that are able to drive endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma. Some studies have shown that as many as 40% of endometrial cancer cases may be attributable to obesity. […] Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal-metabolic disorder, has been shown to promote endometrial cancer development; it is associated with about a 5-fold increased risk on average across several studies.
  • #26 Endometrial Cancer – Life Extension
    https://www.lifeextension.com/protocols/cancer/uterine-endometrial-cancer?srsltid=AfmBOooQviI0wmZJQLdJEndJ7hPEAWL5kCyUngKr5O85FWlJbGlmEQln
    Tamoxifen treatment has been shown to be associated with a 2- to 3-fold higher risk of developing endometrial cancer, and the risk increases with duration of treatment. […] Diabetes mellitus and hyperinsulinemia (elevated insulin levels) have been shown in many studies to be associated with endometrial cancer. […] Endometrial cancer appears to be especially influenced by dietary and lifestyle factors. A variety of factors related to diet and lifestyle can increase the chances of developing endometrial cancer; chief among them is the consumption of foods high in animal fats and sugars whereas diets high in vegetables and fruits (especially those high in lutein) have lower risk. […] Given that inflammation plays a major role in tumor initiation, omega-3 fatty acids have gained considerable attention in the context of cancer prevention and treatment. Indeed, evidence suggests a higher dietary ratio of omega-3s to omega-6s is associated with a lower risk of endometrial cancer.
  • #27 Womb (uterus) cancer | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cancer/cancer-types-in-adults/womb-uterus-cancer/
    Women and anyone with a womb who are treated with tamoxifen (a hormone treatment for breast cancer) can be at an increased risk of developing womb cancer. […] Women and anyone with a womb with diabetes are twice as likely to develop womb cancer as those without the condition. […] Women and anyone with a womb with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are at a higher risk of developing womb cancer, as they have high levels of oestrogen in their bodies. […] Endometrial hyperplasia is when the lining of the womb becomes thicker. It may be increase risk of developing womb cancer.
  • #28 Endometrial Cancer | Nutrition Guide for Clinicians
    https://nutritionguide.pcrm.org/nutritionguide/view/Nutrition_Guide_for_Clinicians/1342025/all/Endometrial_Cancer
    Early menarche, late menopause, and nulliparity (especially when due to anovulation) may increase the risk for endometrial cancer. […] Estrogen therapy without progestin significantly increases the risk of endometrial cancer. […] Women with hypertension and diabetes (particularly type 2) have an increased risk for endometrial cancer, which may reflect the presence of common risk factors such as obesity. […] Women who have a 1st-degree relative with endometrial cancer are at increased risk of developing endometrial cancer. […] Contraceptive pills containing progestin reduce the risk of endometrial cancer by about 50%. […] Regular physical activity is associated with a 20-30% reduction in risk. […] The risk for uterine cancers appears to be associated with greater intakes of foods found in Western diets (animal products, refined carbohydrates).
  • #29 Endometrial Cancer | Nutrition Guide for Clinicians
    https://nutritionguide.pcrm.org/nutritionguide/view/Nutrition_Guide_for_Clinicians/1342025/all/Endometrial_Cancer
    Early menarche, late menopause, and nulliparity (especially when due to anovulation) may increase the risk for endometrial cancer. […] Estrogen therapy without progestin significantly increases the risk of endometrial cancer. […] Women with hypertension and diabetes (particularly type 2) have an increased risk for endometrial cancer, which may reflect the presence of common risk factors such as obesity. […] Women who have a 1st-degree relative with endometrial cancer are at increased risk of developing endometrial cancer. […] Contraceptive pills containing progestin reduce the risk of endometrial cancer by about 50%. […] Regular physical activity is associated with a 20-30% reduction in risk. […] The risk for uterine cancers appears to be associated with greater intakes of foods found in Western diets (animal products, refined carbohydrates).
  • #30 Womb (uterus) cancer | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cancer/cancer-types-in-adults/womb-uterus-cancer/
    Cancer begins with a change (mutation) in the structure of the DNA in cells, which can affect how they grow. This means cells grow and reproduce uncontrollably, producing a lump of tissue called a tumour. […] Its not clear exactly what causes womb cancer, but certain things can increase your risk of developing the condition. […] A hormone imbalance is one of the most important risks for womb cancer. Specifically, your risk is increased if you have high levels of a hormone called oestrogen in your body. […] The risk of developing womb cancer is linked to the body’s exposure to oestrogen. Oestrogen is one of the hormones that regulate the reproductive system. […] After the menopause, the body stops producing progesterone. However, there are still small amounts of oestrogen being produced. This unopposed oestrogen causes the cells of the endometrium to divide, which can increase the risk of womb cancer.
  • #31 Endometrial cancer – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endometrial_cancer
    The p53 pathway can either be suppressed or highly activated in endometrial cancer. When a mutant version of p53 is overexpressed, the cancer tends to be particularly aggressive. […] Development of an endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of endometrial cells) is a significant risk factor because hyperplasias can and often do develop into adenocarcinoma, though cancer can develop without the presence of a hyperplasia. Within ten years, 80-30% of atypical endometrial hyperplasias develop into cancer, whereas 13% of non-atypical hyperplasias do so.
  • #32 LearnOncology
    https://www.learnoncology.ca/modules/endometrial-cancer
    Endometrial hyperplasia is characterized by a proliferation of endometrial glands that results in a greater gland to stroma ratio than would be seen in normal endometrial tissue. It is characterized by proliferation of endometrial glands that almost always results from chronic estrogen stimulation unopposed by progesterone. The hyperplasia may be non-neoplastic or neoplastic, however neoplastic hyperplasia is a precursor to the most common form of endometrial carcinoma so the presence of either type of hyperplasia is notable. […] The World Health Organizations classification system for endometrial hyperplasia is based on the architecture of the glands and stroma, and level of nuclear atypia. Nuclear atypia is defined as the presence of nuclear enlargement where the chromatin may be arranged in a clump pattern or be evenly dispersed. These two dimensions yield four categories, seen below with more information. For comparison, normal endometrium exhibits no crowding of glands in the stroma thus is said to have less than 50% gland:stroma ratio.
  • #33 Uterine Cancer: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/258148-overview
    Endometrioid adenocarcinoma of the endometrium, the most common histology, is usually preceded by adenomatous hyperplasia with atypia. If left untreated, simple and complex endometrial hyperplasia with atypia progress to adenocarcinoma in 8% and 29% of cases, respectively. Without atypia, simple and complex hyperplasia progress to cancer in only 1% and 3% of cases, respectively. […] Less histologic differentiation is associated with a higher incidence of deep myometrial invasion and lymph node metastases. Subsequently, the depth of myometrial invasion and presence of tumor in the lymph nodes is directly related to recurrence rates and 5-year survival rates. […] PTEN mutation is thought to be an early event in low-grade endometrial cancers and is found in 55% of hyperplasia and 85% of cancers, whereas it is not found in benign endometrium.
  • #34 Endometrial cancer pathophysiology – wikidoc
    https://www.wikidoc.org/index.php/Endometrial_cancer_pathophysiology
    Development of endometrial cancer is the result of multiple genetic mutations. Genes involved in the pathogenesis of endometrial cancer include TP53, KRAS, and PTEN. The pathophysiology of endometrial cancer depends on the histological subtype. […] Endometrial cancer forms when there are errors in normal endometrial cell growth. […] Development of an endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of endometrial cells) is a significant risk factor because hyperplasia can and often do develop into adenocarcinoma, though cancer can develop without the presence of a hyperplasia. Within ten years, 830% of atypical endometrial hyperplasias develop into cancer, whereas 13% of non-atypical hyperplasias do so. […] Mutations in the KRAS gene can cause endometrial hyperplasia and therefore type I endometrial cancer. Endometrial hyperplasia typically occurs after the age of 40. Endometrial glandular dysplasia occurs with an overexpression of TP53, and develops into a serous carcinoma (type II endometrial cancer).
  • #35 LearnOncology
    https://www.learnoncology.ca/modules/endometrial-cancer
    Endometrial hyperplasia is characterized by a proliferation of endometrial glands that results in a greater gland to stroma ratio than would be seen in normal endometrial tissue. It is characterized by proliferation of endometrial glands that almost always results from chronic estrogen stimulation unopposed by progesterone. The hyperplasia may be non-neoplastic or neoplastic, however neoplastic hyperplasia is a precursor to the most common form of endometrial carcinoma so the presence of either type of hyperplasia is notable. […] The World Health Organizations classification system for endometrial hyperplasia is based on the architecture of the glands and stroma, and level of nuclear atypia. Nuclear atypia is defined as the presence of nuclear enlargement where the chromatin may be arranged in a clump pattern or be evenly dispersed. These two dimensions yield four categories, seen below with more information. For comparison, normal endometrium exhibits no crowding of glands in the stroma thus is said to have less than 50% gland:stroma ratio.
  • #36 Endometrial cancer: a genetic point of view – Bianco – Translational Cancer Research
    https://tcr.amegroups.org/article/view/46888/html
    Endometrial cancer has a heterogeneous pathophysiology, encompassing many histological types, microscopical features, pathogenesis, behaviors, and prognosis. […] Endometrial carcinomas have distinguishing molecular features. The most frequently mutated genes in endometrioid carcinomas are PTEN (77%), PIK3CA (53%), PIK3R1 (37%), CTNNB1 (36%), ARID1A (35%), K-RAS (24%), CTCF (20%), RPL22 (12%), TP53 (11%), FGFR2 (11%), and ARID5B (11%). […] Endometrial cancer presents more mutations than any other tumor type studied thus far in the PI3K/AKT pathway by TCGA. […] The RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway plays a central role in regulation of cell proliferation, cell survival, and differentiation, is activated by KRAS mutations in endometrioid carcinoma, and can co-occur with alterations in PTEN, PIK3CA, and/or PIK3R1.
  • #37 Endometrial cancer: a genetic point of view – Bianco – Translational Cancer Research
    https://tcr.amegroups.org/article/view/46888/html
    Endometrial cancer has a heterogeneous pathophysiology, encompassing many histological types, microscopical features, pathogenesis, behaviors, and prognosis. […] Endometrial carcinomas have distinguishing molecular features. The most frequently mutated genes in endometrioid carcinomas are PTEN (77%), PIK3CA (53%), PIK3R1 (37%), CTNNB1 (36%), ARID1A (35%), K-RAS (24%), CTCF (20%), RPL22 (12%), TP53 (11%), FGFR2 (11%), and ARID5B (11%). […] Endometrial cancer presents more mutations than any other tumor type studied thus far in the PI3K/AKT pathway by TCGA. […] The RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway plays a central role in regulation of cell proliferation, cell survival, and differentiation, is activated by KRAS mutations in endometrioid carcinoma, and can co-occur with alterations in PTEN, PIK3CA, and/or PIK3R1.
  • #38 Theories of Endometrial Carcinogenesis: A Multidisciplinary Approach | Modern Pathology
    https://www.nature.com/articles/3880051
    The identification of MI in AH associated with endometrioid carcinomas, but not in AH without associated carcinoma, suggests that mismatch repair defects may occur in the transition between the two lesions. […] In summary, molecular evidence, though not abundant or entirely consistent between studies, supports the existence of a dualistic model of endometrial carcinogenesis. Endometrioid (type 1) carcinomas are associated with mutations in ras, PTEN, and MI, whereas serous (type 2) carcinomas are associated with p53 mutations. […] The nearly universal detection of p53 mutations in serous carcinoma and its precursor, EIC, including examples of EIC without associated invasion, suggests that p53 mutation may represent the molecular signature of serous carcinoma and possibly define the entity in combination with morphology.
  • #39 Endometrial cancer – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endometrial_cancer
    Endometrial cancer is a cancer that arises from the endometrium (the lining of the uterus or womb). It is the result of the abnormal growth of cells that can invade or spread to other parts of the body. […] Endometrial cancer forms when there are errors in normal endometrial cell growth. Usually, when cells grow old or get damaged, they die, and new cells take their place. Cancer starts when new cells form unneeded, and old or damaged cells do not die as they should. The buildup of extra cells often forms a mass of tissue called a growth or tumor. These abnormal cancer cells have many genetic abnormalities that cause them to grow excessively. […] In 10-20% of endometrial cancers, mostly Grade 3 (the highest histologic grade), mutations are found in a tumor suppressor gene, commonly p53 or PTEN. In 20% of endometrial hyperplasias and 50% of endometrioid cancers, PTEN has a loss-of-function mutation or a null mutation, making it less effective or completely ineffective. Loss of PTEN function leads to up-regulation of the PI3k/Akt/mTOR pathway, which causes cell growth.
  • #40 Uterine Cancer: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/258148-overview
    Endometrioid adenocarcinoma of the endometrium, the most common histology, is usually preceded by adenomatous hyperplasia with atypia. If left untreated, simple and complex endometrial hyperplasia with atypia progress to adenocarcinoma in 8% and 29% of cases, respectively. Without atypia, simple and complex hyperplasia progress to cancer in only 1% and 3% of cases, respectively. […] Less histologic differentiation is associated with a higher incidence of deep myometrial invasion and lymph node metastases. Subsequently, the depth of myometrial invasion and presence of tumor in the lymph nodes is directly related to recurrence rates and 5-year survival rates. […] PTEN mutation is thought to be an early event in low-grade endometrial cancers and is found in 55% of hyperplasia and 85% of cancers, whereas it is not found in benign endometrium.
  • #41 Endometrial cancer pathophysiology – wikidoc
    https://www.wikidoc.org/index.php/Endometrial_cancer_pathophysiology
    Development of endometrial cancer is the result of multiple genetic mutations. Genes involved in the pathogenesis of endometrial cancer include TP53, KRAS, and PTEN. The pathophysiology of endometrial cancer depends on the histological subtype. […] Endometrial cancer forms when there are errors in normal endometrial cell growth. […] Development of an endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of endometrial cells) is a significant risk factor because hyperplasia can and often do develop into adenocarcinoma, though cancer can develop without the presence of a hyperplasia. Within ten years, 830% of atypical endometrial hyperplasias develop into cancer, whereas 13% of non-atypical hyperplasias do so. […] Mutations in the KRAS gene can cause endometrial hyperplasia and therefore type I endometrial cancer. Endometrial hyperplasia typically occurs after the age of 40. Endometrial glandular dysplasia occurs with an overexpression of TP53, and develops into a serous carcinoma (type II endometrial cancer).
  • #42 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Another subgroup of EC was tumors with microsatellite instability (MSI). These tumors have mismatch repair defects and a tumor mutational burden that is ~10-fold greater than that of a general mutational background. These tumors have mutations in many genes owing to their generally high mutation burden, therefore, it can be difficult to differentiate passenger from driver mutations. PTEN, ARID1A, PIK3CA, PIK3R1 and RPL22 are all commonly mutated in the MSI subgroup of EC. Moreover, mutations or epigenetic silencing of MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and less commonly EPCAM, are often responsible for MSI. […] The identification of the molecular subgroups has rapidly changed the way ECs are stratified and treated. Several groups have taken these initial findings from TCGA and extrapolated them for better application to clinical practice. One approach – known as ProMisE (proactive molecular risk classifier for EC) – uses IHC to identify mismatch repair proteins and p53, and sequences the POLE exonuclease domain. ProMisE has identified four molecular subtypes of EC that are analogous but not identical to the four genomic subtypes described in TCGA study: MMRd, DNA POLE (corresponding to the ultramutated (POLE mutated) subtype), p53abn (which demonstrates aberrant p53 immunohistochemical staining and corresponds to the CNH subtype) and p53wt (which corresponds to the CNL subtype). Cases lacking enough information to classify are designated NSMP.
  • #43 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Another subgroup of EC was tumors with microsatellite instability (MSI). These tumors have mismatch repair defects and a tumor mutational burden that is ~10-fold greater than that of a general mutational background. These tumors have mutations in many genes owing to their generally high mutation burden, therefore, it can be difficult to differentiate passenger from driver mutations. PTEN, ARID1A, PIK3CA, PIK3R1 and RPL22 are all commonly mutated in the MSI subgroup of EC. Moreover, mutations or epigenetic silencing of MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and less commonly EPCAM, are often responsible for MSI. […] The identification of the molecular subgroups has rapidly changed the way ECs are stratified and treated. Several groups have taken these initial findings from TCGA and extrapolated them for better application to clinical practice. One approach – known as ProMisE (proactive molecular risk classifier for EC) – uses IHC to identify mismatch repair proteins and p53, and sequences the POLE exonuclease domain. ProMisE has identified four molecular subtypes of EC that are analogous but not identical to the four genomic subtypes described in TCGA study: MMRd, DNA POLE (corresponding to the ultramutated (POLE mutated) subtype), p53abn (which demonstrates aberrant p53 immunohistochemical staining and corresponds to the CNH subtype) and p53wt (which corresponds to the CNL subtype). Cases lacking enough information to classify are designated NSMP.
  • #44 Uterine Cancer: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/258148-overview
    Fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) is a tyrosine kinase receptor involved in many biological processes. Mutations in FGFR2 have been reported in up to 10-12% of endometrial carcinomas. Inhibition of FGFR2 could be a therapeutic target in endometrial carcinoma. Gatius et al suggest that FGFR2 has a dual role in the endometrium, inhibiting cell proliferation in normal endometria during the menstrual cycle but acting as an oncogene in endometrial carcinoma. […] Endometrial cancers are divided into 2 classes, each with differing pathophysiology and prognosis. […] More than 80% of endometrial carcinomas are type I and are due to unopposed estrogen stimulation, resulting in a low-grade histology. It is often found in association with atypical endometrial hyperplasia, which is thought to be a precursor lesion. Type II endometrial cancers are thought to be estrogen independent, occurring in older women, with high-grade histologies such as uterine papillary serous or clear cell.
  • #45 Endometrial Cancer | Treatment & Management | Point of Care
    https://www.statpearls.com/point-of-care/21102
    The pathogenesis of non-endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinoma is related to genetic and somatic mutations and not necessarily hormonal factors. […] In low-grade endometrioid cancers, the most commonly occurring endometrial cancer type, malignant endometrial transformation results from mitogenic stimulation of EIN precursor lesions secondary to estrogenic stimulation. […] In contrast to low-grade endometrioid carcinomas, aggressive endometrial serous carcinomas, and clear cell carcinomas typically arise in atrophic, resting, or weakly proliferative endometrium through genetic mutations and epigenetic changes. […] Identical TP53 mutations have been found in foci of benign-appearing endometrium (or „p53 signatures”) endometrial glandular dysplasia and associated serous endometrial intraepithelial carcinoma and invasive endometrial serous carcinomas, giving credence to a concept of endometrial serous carcinogenesis with accumulation of TP53 mutations recognized first as p53 signatures, progressing to endometrial glandular dysplasia, to endometrial intraepithelial carcinoma, and ultimately to endometrial serous carcinomas.
  • #46 Theories of Endometrial Carcinogenesis: A Multidisciplinary Approach | Modern Pathology
    https://www.nature.com/articles/3880051
    The identification of MI in AH associated with endometrioid carcinomas, but not in AH without associated carcinoma, suggests that mismatch repair defects may occur in the transition between the two lesions. […] In summary, molecular evidence, though not abundant or entirely consistent between studies, supports the existence of a dualistic model of endometrial carcinogenesis. Endometrioid (type 1) carcinomas are associated with mutations in ras, PTEN, and MI, whereas serous (type 2) carcinomas are associated with p53 mutations. […] The nearly universal detection of p53 mutations in serous carcinoma and its precursor, EIC, including examples of EIC without associated invasion, suggests that p53 mutation may represent the molecular signature of serous carcinoma and possibly define the entity in combination with morphology.
  • #47 Endometrial Cancer | Treatment & Management | Point of Care
    https://www.statpearls.com/point-of-care/21102
    The pathogenesis of non-endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinoma is related to genetic and somatic mutations and not necessarily hormonal factors. […] In low-grade endometrioid cancers, the most commonly occurring endometrial cancer type, malignant endometrial transformation results from mitogenic stimulation of EIN precursor lesions secondary to estrogenic stimulation. […] In contrast to low-grade endometrioid carcinomas, aggressive endometrial serous carcinomas, and clear cell carcinomas typically arise in atrophic, resting, or weakly proliferative endometrium through genetic mutations and epigenetic changes. […] Identical TP53 mutations have been found in foci of benign-appearing endometrium (or „p53 signatures”) endometrial glandular dysplasia and associated serous endometrial intraepithelial carcinoma and invasive endometrial serous carcinomas, giving credence to a concept of endometrial serous carcinogenesis with accumulation of TP53 mutations recognized first as p53 signatures, progressing to endometrial glandular dysplasia, to endometrial intraepithelial carcinoma, and ultimately to endometrial serous carcinomas.
  • #48 Uterine Cancer: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/258148-overview
    Approximately 15-20% of endometrial cancers are type II cancers with papillary serous or clear cell histologies. Papillary serous histology represents 5-10% and clear cell histology represents less than 5% of endometrial cancers. They are considered high grade with poor prognosis. They have a propensity for early nodal or upper abdominal spread even with minimal or no myometrial invasion. The p53 mutation is more common in high-grade tumors, and ERBB-2 (HER-2/neu) mutation is common in type II cancers. […] Carcinosarcomas or malignant mixed mllerian tumors (MMMT) are typically comprised of a high grade epithelial carcinoma and stromal sarcoma. The sarcomatous portion of the tumor may exhibit an endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS) pattern, if differentiated. […] The histopathologic diagnosis of uterine sarcomas can be unclear until the time of definitive surgery. Diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma is dependent on the number of mitoses and the degree of cellular atypia. The diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma versus leiomyoma and leiomyoma with high mitotic activity or uncertain malignant potential is based on the metastatic potential of the tumor.
  • #49 Endometrial cancer: a genetic point of view – Bianco – Translational Cancer Research
    https://tcr.amegroups.org/article/view/46888/html
    The consequence of epigenetic silencing caused by promoter hypermethylation of MLH1 leads to MSI in sporadic endometrioid carcinomas. […] Somatic mutations in PPP2R1A, FBXW7, SPOP, CHD4, and TAF1 are also involved in the serous carcinoma pathogenesis. […] Endometrial cancer risk may be influenced by common low-penetrance variants, such as single nucleotide variants (SNVs), in genes involved in cell survival, estrogen metabolism, and transcriptional control. […] The activation of cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R), a G-protein coupled receptor present in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues such as the ovaries and uterus, can regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and death. […] The cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) is expressed the most in endometrial cancer biopsies and has a potential role in the control of cancer cell growth through the regulation of mitochondrial function and cell apoptosis.
  • #50 Endometrial Cancer – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525981/
    The molecular etiologies of high-grade endometrioid and clear cell endometrial carcinomas lack the definition achieved by research on the pathogenesis of endometrial low-grade endometrioid carcinomas and endometrial serous carcinomas. […] Immunologic mechanisms also contribute to malignant endometrial transformation.
  • #51 Endometrial cancer: a genetic point of view – Bianco – Translational Cancer Research
    https://tcr.amegroups.org/article/view/46888/html
    The consequence of epigenetic silencing caused by promoter hypermethylation of MLH1 leads to MSI in sporadic endometrioid carcinomas. […] Somatic mutations in PPP2R1A, FBXW7, SPOP, CHD4, and TAF1 are also involved in the serous carcinoma pathogenesis. […] Endometrial cancer risk may be influenced by common low-penetrance variants, such as single nucleotide variants (SNVs), in genes involved in cell survival, estrogen metabolism, and transcriptional control. […] The activation of cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R), a G-protein coupled receptor present in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues such as the ovaries and uterus, can regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and death. […] The cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) is expressed the most in endometrial cancer biopsies and has a potential role in the control of cancer cell growth through the regulation of mitochondrial function and cell apoptosis.
  • #52 Endometrial Cancer – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525981/
    Because of this underlying pathologic mechanism, endometrial cancer is more frequently categorized by molecular subgroups based on mutation burden and copy number alterations rather than histological findings. […] The pathogenesis of non-endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinoma is related to genetic and somatic mutations and not necessarily hormonal factors. […] In low-grade endometrioid cancers, the most commonly occurring endometrial cancer type, malignant endometrial transformation results from mitogenic stimulation of EIN precursor lesions secondary to estrogenic stimulation. […] In contrast to low-grade endometrioid carcinomas, aggressive endometrial serous carcinomas, and clear cell carcinomas typically arise in atrophic, resting, or weakly proliferative endometrium through genetic mutations and epigenetic changes.
  • #53 Theories of Endometrial Carcinogenesis: A Multidisciplinary Approach | Modern Pathology
    https://www.nature.com/articles/3880051
    Historical observations have suggested that endometrial carcinomas vary in histopathologic appearance and clinical features. […] Specifically, studies suggest that the most common type of endometrial carcinoma, endometrioid adenocarcinoma, develops from endometrial hyperplasia in the setting of excess estrogen exposure and usually pursues an indolent clinical course. In contrast, a minority of endometrial carcinomas, best represented by serous carcinoma, do not seem to be related to estrogenic risk factors or elevated serum hormone levels, and these tumors seem to develop from atrophic rather than hyperplastic epithelium. […] We have proposed that serous carcinomas develop from endometrial intraepithelial carcinoma, a lesion representing malignant transformation of the endometrial surface epithelium.
  • #54 Endometrial Cancer – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525981/
    Because of this underlying pathologic mechanism, endometrial cancer is more frequently categorized by molecular subgroups based on mutation burden and copy number alterations rather than histological findings. […] The pathogenesis of non-endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinoma is related to genetic and somatic mutations and not necessarily hormonal factors. […] In low-grade endometrioid cancers, the most commonly occurring endometrial cancer type, malignant endometrial transformation results from mitogenic stimulation of EIN precursor lesions secondary to estrogenic stimulation. […] In contrast to low-grade endometrioid carcinomas, aggressive endometrial serous carcinomas, and clear cell carcinomas typically arise in atrophic, resting, or weakly proliferative endometrium through genetic mutations and epigenetic changes.
  • #55 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Endometrioid ECs develop through malignant transformation of the precursor lesions atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH) also known as endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia. AEH often contains somatic PTEN mutations; loss of PTEN is necessary for the development of AEH but is insufficient for progression to invasive carcinoma. ARID1A has a critical role in the transition of precursor AEH lesions to invasive endometrioid carcinomas, and inactivation of TGFB also contributes to the progression of AEH to invasive carcinoma. […] The less common and more aggressive uterine serous carcinomas and the rarer uterine clear cell carcinomas are likely manifestations of increased genotoxic stress that is directly mediated through mutational and epigenetic activation of endometrial precursor cells. These EC subtypes often arise from precursor lesions such as serous endometrial intraepithelial carcinoma (SEIC). SEIC precursor lesions are thought to contain initiating TP53 mutations, as evidenced by abnormal immunohistochemistry staining of p53 and some reports of identifiable somatic TP53 mutations in SEIC precursor lesions and invasive disease.
  • #56 Theories of Endometrial Carcinogenesis: A Multidisciplinary Approach | Modern Pathology
    https://www.nature.com/articles/3880051
    Historical observations have suggested that endometrial carcinomas vary in histopathologic appearance and clinical features. […] Specifically, studies suggest that the most common type of endometrial carcinoma, endometrioid adenocarcinoma, develops from endometrial hyperplasia in the setting of excess estrogen exposure and usually pursues an indolent clinical course. In contrast, a minority of endometrial carcinomas, best represented by serous carcinoma, do not seem to be related to estrogenic risk factors or elevated serum hormone levels, and these tumors seem to develop from atrophic rather than hyperplastic epithelium. […] We have proposed that serous carcinomas develop from endometrial intraepithelial carcinoma, a lesion representing malignant transformation of the endometrial surface epithelium.
  • #57 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Endometrioid ECs develop through malignant transformation of the precursor lesions atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH) also known as endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia. AEH often contains somatic PTEN mutations; loss of PTEN is necessary for the development of AEH but is insufficient for progression to invasive carcinoma. ARID1A has a critical role in the transition of precursor AEH lesions to invasive endometrioid carcinomas, and inactivation of TGFB also contributes to the progression of AEH to invasive carcinoma. […] The less common and more aggressive uterine serous carcinomas and the rarer uterine clear cell carcinomas are likely manifestations of increased genotoxic stress that is directly mediated through mutational and epigenetic activation of endometrial precursor cells. These EC subtypes often arise from precursor lesions such as serous endometrial intraepithelial carcinoma (SEIC). SEIC precursor lesions are thought to contain initiating TP53 mutations, as evidenced by abnormal immunohistochemistry staining of p53 and some reports of identifiable somatic TP53 mutations in SEIC precursor lesions and invasive disease.
  • #58 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Endometrioid ECs develop through malignant transformation of the precursor lesions atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH) also known as endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia. AEH often contains somatic PTEN mutations; loss of PTEN is necessary for the development of AEH but is insufficient for progression to invasive carcinoma. ARID1A has a critical role in the transition of precursor AEH lesions to invasive endometrioid carcinomas, and inactivation of TGFB also contributes to the progression of AEH to invasive carcinoma. […] The less common and more aggressive uterine serous carcinomas and the rarer uterine clear cell carcinomas are likely manifestations of increased genotoxic stress that is directly mediated through mutational and epigenetic activation of endometrial precursor cells. These EC subtypes often arise from precursor lesions such as serous endometrial intraepithelial carcinoma (SEIC). SEIC precursor lesions are thought to contain initiating TP53 mutations, as evidenced by abnormal immunohistochemistry staining of p53 and some reports of identifiable somatic TP53 mutations in SEIC precursor lesions and invasive disease.
  • #59 Endometrial Cancer – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525981/
    The molecular etiologies of high-grade endometrioid and clear cell endometrial carcinomas lack the definition achieved by research on the pathogenesis of endometrial low-grade endometrioid carcinomas and endometrial serous carcinomas. […] Immunologic mechanisms also contribute to malignant endometrial transformation.
  • #60 Endometrial Cancer | Treatment & Management | Point of Care
    https://www.statpearls.com/point-of-care/21102
    The molecular etiologies of high-grade endometrioid and clear cell endometrial carcinomas lack the definition achieved by research on the pathogenesis of endometrial low-grade endometrioid carcinomas and endometrial serous carcinomas. […] Immunologic mechanisms also contribute to malignant endometrial transformation. While the immune system is normally protective against pathogenic changes, study results have identified immunologic factors that promote progression from EIN to endometrial cancer, including tumor-associated macrophages, fibroblasts, and myofibroblasts.
  • #61 Endometrial Cancer – Gynecology and Obstetrics – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/gynecologic-tumors/endometrial-cancer
    The higher (more undifferentiated) the grade of the tumor, the greater the likelihood of deep myometrial invasion, pelvic or para-aortic lymph node metastases, or extrauterine spread. […] Determining the molecular subtype, if feasible, adds valuable information to the standard clinicopathological risk factors to classify patients with endometrial cancer into risk groups, predict prognosis, and guide treatment recommendations. […] Uterine papillary serous carcinomas (10%), clear cell carcinomas (carcinosarcomas). […] The combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy has shown synergistic effects in endometrial cancer treatment. In a phase III global randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial, dostarlimab plus carboplatinpaclitaxel compared with placebo plus carboplatinpaclitaxel significantly increased progression-free survival (PFS) among patients with advanced (stage III or IV) or recurrent endometrial cancer.
  • #62 Endometrial Cancer – Gynecology and Obstetrics – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/gynecologic-tumors/endometrial-cancer
    Overall survival (OS) at 24 months was 71.3% with dostarlimab and 56.0% with placebo (hazard ratio for mortality, 0.64). Subgroup analysis showed a substantial benefit in patients with high microsatellite instability/mismatch repair-deficient tumors (PFS at 24 months was 61.4% in the dostarlimab group versus 15.7% in the placebo group; hazard ratio for progression or death, 0.28).
  • #63 Uterine Cancer: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/258148-overview
    Endometrial cancer may originate in a small area (eg, within an endometrial polyp) or in a diffuse multifocal pattern. Early tumor growth is characterized by an exophytic and spreading pattern. This growth is characterized by friability and spontaneous bleeding, even at early stages. Later tumor growth is characterized by myometrial invasion and growth toward the cervix. […] Four routes of spread occur beyond the uterus: Direct/local spread accounts for most local extension beyond the uterus. Lymphatic spread accounts for spread to pelvic, para-aortic, and, rarely, inguinal lymph nodes. Hematologic spread is responsible for metastases to the lungs, liver, bone, and brain (rare). Peritoneal/transtubal spread results in intraperitoneal implants, particularly with uterine papillary serous carcinoma (UPSC), similar to the pattern observed in ovarian cancer.
  • #64 Uterine Cancer
    https://www.csh.org.tw/dr.tcj/educartion/f/web/Uterine%20Cancer/index.htm
    Endometrial cancer may originate in a small area (eg, within an endometrial polyp) or a diffuse multifocal pattern. […] Early tumor growth is characterized by an exophytic and spreading pattern. […] As noted in the next section, this growth is characterized by friability and spontaneous bleeding, even at early stages. […] Later tumor growth is characterized by myometrial invasion and growth toward the cervix. […] There are 4 routes of spread beyond the uterus: Direct/local – Accounts for the majority of local extension beyond the uterus; Lymphatic – Accounting for spread to pelvic, para-aortic, and, rarely, inguinal lymph nodes; Hematologic – Responsible for metastases to the lungs, liver, bone, brain (rare); Peritoneal/transtubal – Intraperitoneal implants, particularly with uterine papillary serous carcinoma, similar to the pattern seen in ovarian cancer.
  • #65 Uterine Cancer
    https://www.csh.org.tw/dr.tcj/educartion/f/web/Uterine%20Cancer/index.htm
    Endometrial cancer may originate in a small area (eg, within an endometrial polyp) or a diffuse multifocal pattern. […] Early tumor growth is characterized by an exophytic and spreading pattern. […] As noted in the next section, this growth is characterized by friability and spontaneous bleeding, even at early stages. […] Later tumor growth is characterized by myometrial invasion and growth toward the cervix. […] There are 4 routes of spread beyond the uterus: Direct/local – Accounts for the majority of local extension beyond the uterus; Lymphatic – Accounting for spread to pelvic, para-aortic, and, rarely, inguinal lymph nodes; Hematologic – Responsible for metastases to the lungs, liver, bone, brain (rare); Peritoneal/transtubal – Intraperitoneal implants, particularly with uterine papillary serous carcinoma, similar to the pattern seen in ovarian cancer.
  • #66 Uterine Cancer: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/258148-overview
    Endometrioid adenocarcinoma of the endometrium, the most common histology, is usually preceded by adenomatous hyperplasia with atypia. If left untreated, simple and complex endometrial hyperplasia with atypia progress to adenocarcinoma in 8% and 29% of cases, respectively. Without atypia, simple and complex hyperplasia progress to cancer in only 1% and 3% of cases, respectively. […] Less histologic differentiation is associated with a higher incidence of deep myometrial invasion and lymph node metastases. Subsequently, the depth of myometrial invasion and presence of tumor in the lymph nodes is directly related to recurrence rates and 5-year survival rates. […] PTEN mutation is thought to be an early event in low-grade endometrial cancers and is found in 55% of hyperplasia and 85% of cancers, whereas it is not found in benign endometrium.
  • #67 Uterine Cancer
    https://www.csh.org.tw/dr.tcj/educartion/f/web/Uterine%20Cancer/index.htm
    The differentiation of endometrial cancers is one of the most important prognostic factors. […] Less histologic differentiation is associated with higher incidence of deep (one half) myometrial invasion and lymph node metastases. […] Subsequently, the depth of myometrial invasion and presence of tumor in the lymph nodes is directly related to recurrence rates and 5-year survival. […] Carcinosarcomas or homologous mixed mllerian tumors (MMT) typically have an endometrioid carcinoma, usually a higher grade, and an undifferentiated spindle cell sarcoma. […] The sarcomatous portion of the tumor may exhibit an ESS pattern, if differentiated. […] MMTs are characterized by early extrauterine spread and lymph node metastases. […] Endometrial stromal sarcomas (ESS) can be divided into 2 categories: low-grade (LGESS) and high-grade (HGESS) ESS.
  • #68 Endometrial Cancer Treatment (PDQ®) – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/types/uterine/hp/endometrial-treatment-pdq
    Involvement of the capillary-lymphatic space on histopathological examination correlates with extrauterine and nodal spread of tumor. […] When possible, progesterone and estrogen receptor statuses, assessed either by biochemical or immunohistochemical methods, are included in the evaluation of patients with stage I and stage II cancer. […] Other factors predictive of poor prognosis include a high S-phase fraction, aneuploidy, PTEN loss-of-function variant, PIK3CA variant, TP53 variant, and oncogene expression.
  • #69 Endometrial cancer: Pathophysiology, diagnosis and management – IJCAAP
    https://www.ijcap.in/html-article/18885
    The majority of postmenopausal women who are diagnosed with EC are 60 years of age or older. Almost 85% of cases developing after the age of 50 and only 5% before the age of 40, the highest age-specific incidence occurs between the ages of 75 and 79. […] The metabolic syndrome raises the risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and other chronic disease conditions. Hypertension, increased triglycerides, reduced HDL cholesterol, obesity, and hyperglycemia are major contributing factors to all possible causes of the metabolic syndrome. Epidemiologically, type 2 diabetes and hypertension have been linked to an increased risk of EC; however, the associated obesity is the hidden cause. […] The majority of ECs are triggered by sporadic mutations; however, only around 5% of EC instances are due to genetic alterations. Lynch syndrome and Cowden syndrome are examples of genetic predispositions that result in EC.
  • #70 Endometrial Cancer – Gynecology and Obstetrics – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/gynecologic-tumors/endometrial-cancer
    Endometrial cancer is usually preceded by endometrial hyperplasia. Endometrial carcinoma is commonly classified into 2 types. […] Most endometrial cancers are caused by sporadic mutations. However, in approximately 5% of patients, inherited mutations cause endometrial cancer; endometrial cancer due to inherited mutations tends to occur at a younger age and is often diagnosed 10 to 20 years earlier than sporadic cancer. About half of cases that involve heredity occur in families with Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC]). Patients who have Lynch syndrome have a high risk of developing other cancers (eg, colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer). […] Endometrial cancer may spread as follows: From the surface of the uterine cavity to the cervical canal, Through the myometrium to the serosa and into the peritoneal cavity, Via the lumen of the fallopian tube to the ovary, broad ligament, and peritoneal surfaces, Via the bloodstream, leading to distant metastases, Via the lymphatics.
  • #71 Endometrial Cancer – Gynecology and Obstetrics – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/gynecologic-tumors/endometrial-cancer
    Endometrial cancer is usually preceded by endometrial hyperplasia. Endometrial carcinoma is commonly classified into 2 types. […] Most endometrial cancers are caused by sporadic mutations. However, in approximately 5% of patients, inherited mutations cause endometrial cancer; endometrial cancer due to inherited mutations tends to occur at a younger age and is often diagnosed 10 to 20 years earlier than sporadic cancer. About half of cases that involve heredity occur in families with Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC]). Patients who have Lynch syndrome have a high risk of developing other cancers (eg, colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer). […] Endometrial cancer may spread as follows: From the surface of the uterine cavity to the cervical canal, Through the myometrium to the serosa and into the peritoneal cavity, Via the lumen of the fallopian tube to the ovary, broad ligament, and peritoneal surfaces, Via the bloodstream, leading to distant metastases, Via the lymphatics.
  • #72 Endometrial Carcinoma: Practice Essentials, Background, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/254083-overview
    The most widely used anticancer drug is tamoxifen, and this drug has been suggested by some studies to cause an increased incidence of adenocarcinoma of the endometrium. […] In contrast to tamoxifen, increasing data indicate that the use of combination oral contraceptives (OCs) decreases the risk of developing endometrial cancer. […] Some associated medical conditions have been found to increase the incidence of endometrial cancer. […] Data suggest that women who have had breast cancer have a 2- to 3-fold increased risk of subsequently developing endometrial cancer. […] Women who have hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC) appear to have a markedly increased risk for developing endometrial cancer. […] The first type occurs in women who fall into the classic category. These women are obese and have hyperlipidemia, signs of hyperestrogenism, uterine bleeding, infertility, and late onset of menopause.
  • #73 Uterine cancer | Causes, Symptoms & Treatments | Cancer Council
    https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/uterine-cancer
    Cancer of the uterus occurs when abnormal cells develop in the uterus and begin growing out of control. […] There are two main types of uterine cancer. Endometrial cancers begin in the lining of the uterus (endometrium) and account for about 95% of all cases; and uterine sarcomas, which develop in the muscle tissue (myometrium), and is a rarer form of uterine cancer. […] Some factors that can increase your risk of uterine cancer include: being postmenopausal, or reaching menopause (after age 55); a thickened wall lining (endometrial hyperplasia); never having children; starting periods early (before age 12); having high blood pressure or diabetes; being overweight or obese; family history of ovarian, uterine, or bowel cancer; having a genetic condition such as Cowden syndrome or Lynch syndrome; previous ovarian tumours, or polycystic ovary syndrome; using oestrogen only hormone replacement therapy or fertility treatment; previous radiation therapy to the pelvis; taking tamoxifen to treat breast cancer (the benefits of treating breast cancer usually outweigh the risk of uterine cancer – (talk to your doctor if you are concerned).
  • #74 Endometrial Cancer – Life Extension
    https://www.lifeextension.com/protocols/cancer/uterine-endometrial-cancer?srsltid=AfmBOooQviI0wmZJQLdJEndJ7hPEAWL5kCyUngKr5O85FWlJbGlmEQln
    Tamoxifen treatment has been shown to be associated with a 2- to 3-fold higher risk of developing endometrial cancer, and the risk increases with duration of treatment. […] Diabetes mellitus and hyperinsulinemia (elevated insulin levels) have been shown in many studies to be associated with endometrial cancer. […] Endometrial cancer appears to be especially influenced by dietary and lifestyle factors. A variety of factors related to diet and lifestyle can increase the chances of developing endometrial cancer; chief among them is the consumption of foods high in animal fats and sugars whereas diets high in vegetables and fruits (especially those high in lutein) have lower risk. […] Given that inflammation plays a major role in tumor initiation, omega-3 fatty acids have gained considerable attention in the context of cancer prevention and treatment. Indeed, evidence suggests a higher dietary ratio of omega-3s to omega-6s is associated with a lower risk of endometrial cancer.
  • #75 Endometrial Cancer | Nutrition Guide for Clinicians
    https://nutritionguide.pcrm.org/nutritionguide/view/Nutrition_Guide_for_Clinicians/1342025/all/Endometrial_Cancer
    Early menarche, late menopause, and nulliparity (especially when due to anovulation) may increase the risk for endometrial cancer. […] Estrogen therapy without progestin significantly increases the risk of endometrial cancer. […] Women with hypertension and diabetes (particularly type 2) have an increased risk for endometrial cancer, which may reflect the presence of common risk factors such as obesity. […] Women who have a 1st-degree relative with endometrial cancer are at increased risk of developing endometrial cancer. […] Contraceptive pills containing progestin reduce the risk of endometrial cancer by about 50%. […] Regular physical activity is associated with a 20-30% reduction in risk. […] The risk for uterine cancers appears to be associated with greater intakes of foods found in Western diets (animal products, refined carbohydrates).
  • #76 Endometrial Cancer | Nutrition Guide for Clinicians
    https://nutritionguide.pcrm.org/nutritionguide/view/Nutrition_Guide_for_Clinicians/1342025/all/Endometrial_Cancer
    A 2015 meta-analysis showed that a high soy intake is associated with a nearly 20% lower endometrial cancer risk. […] The Iowa Womens Health Study found a 78% greater risk for endometrial cancer in women who consumed the most sugar-sweetened beverages, compared with those who consumed the lowest amount. […] Women who consume the most coffee were found to have a 20% lower risk for endometrial cancer when compared with those who consumed the lowest amount. […] There appears to be a J-shaped relationship between ethanol consumption and risk for endometrial cancer. […] Limiting high-energy-dense foods and high salt (or foods high in sodium), exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight may reduce cancer risk.
  • #77 Endometrial Cancer – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525981/
    Endometrial cancer is a malignancy originating within the epithelial lining of the uterus. […] The condition has historically been classified into type 1 and type 2 endometrial cancer based on histological characteristics. However, results from recent studies have begun classifying endometrial cancers according to a current molecular subgrouping system. […] The most significant risk factors associated with endometrial cancer development include those that increase long-term exposure to unopposed estrogen (eg, obesity and exogenous estrogen). […] Present consensus holds that the pathogenesis of most low-grade endometrial carcinomas begins with uninterrupted endometrial proliferation, hormonally stimulated by endogenous or exogenous estrogen unopposed by progesterone or progestins, progressing through states of simple to complex forms of endometrial hyperplasia.
  • #78 Endometrial Cancer | Treatment & Management | Point of Care
    https://www.statpearls.com/point-of-care/21102
    Present consensus holds that the pathogenesis of most low-grade endometrial carcinomas begins with uninterrupted endometrial proliferation, hormonally stimulated by endogenous or exogenous estrogen unopposed by progesterone or progestins, progressing through states of simple to complex forms of endometrial hyperplasia. […] Arising in this milieu, histologically recognizable atypical premalignant lesions, defined as endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia (EIN), formerly termed atypical endometrial hyperplasia, may transform into endometrioid carcinoma, characterized by stromal and myometrial invasion, PTEN mutations, and often KRAS2 mutations, microsatellite instability caused by mismatch repair deficiencies (MMRd) found in Lynch syndrome, and near-diploid karyotype. […] Because of this underlying pathologic mechanism, endometrial cancer is more frequently categorized by molecular subgroups based on mutation burden and copy number alterations rather than histological findings.
  • #79 Endometrial Cancer
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9421940/
    Another subgroup of EC was tumors with microsatellite instability (MSI). These tumors have mismatch repair defects and a tumor mutational burden that is ~10-fold greater than that of a general mutational background. These tumors have mutations in many genes owing to their generally high mutation burden, therefore, it can be difficult to differentiate passenger from driver mutations. PTEN, ARID1A, PIK3CA, PIK3R1 and RPL22 are all commonly mutated in the MSI subgroup of EC. Moreover, mutations or epigenetic silencing of MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and less commonly EPCAM, are often responsible for MSI. […] The identification of the molecular subgroups has rapidly changed the way ECs are stratified and treated. Several groups have taken these initial findings from TCGA and extrapolated them for better application to clinical practice. One approach – known as ProMisE (proactive molecular risk classifier for EC) – uses IHC to identify mismatch repair proteins and p53, and sequences the POLE exonuclease domain. ProMisE has identified four molecular subtypes of EC that are analogous but not identical to the four genomic subtypes described in TCGA study: MMRd, DNA POLE (corresponding to the ultramutated (POLE mutated) subtype), p53abn (which demonstrates aberrant p53 immunohistochemical staining and corresponds to the CNH subtype) and p53wt (which corresponds to the CNL subtype). Cases lacking enough information to classify are designated NSMP.
  • #80 Endometrial Cancer – Gynecology and Obstetrics – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/gynecologic-tumors/endometrial-cancer
    The higher (more undifferentiated) the grade of the tumor, the greater the likelihood of deep myometrial invasion, pelvic or para-aortic lymph node metastases, or extrauterine spread. […] Determining the molecular subtype, if feasible, adds valuable information to the standard clinicopathological risk factors to classify patients with endometrial cancer into risk groups, predict prognosis, and guide treatment recommendations. […] Uterine papillary serous carcinomas (10%), clear cell carcinomas (carcinosarcomas). […] The combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy has shown synergistic effects in endometrial cancer treatment. In a phase III global randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial, dostarlimab plus carboplatinpaclitaxel compared with placebo plus carboplatinpaclitaxel significantly increased progression-free survival (PFS) among patients with advanced (stage III or IV) or recurrent endometrial cancer.