Gynaecological: Key Points

Ovarian Cancer:

• 5,400 cases p.a. in England & Wales
• Uncommon below 40 years (5%)
• Symptoms – often vague/non specific abdominal symptoms
• 90% have a palpable pelvic mass
• Usually diagnosed late

Endometrial Cancer:

• 3,900 cases p.a. in England & Wales
• Most patients (95%) present with postmenopausal bleeding
• Uncommon in premenopausal women (< 5%)

Cervical Cancer:

• 3400 cases p.a.
• Incidence similar across all age groups > 30 years
• Screening programme aims to identify precursor lesions
• Typical symptoms are postmenopausal, postcoital and persistent intermenstrual bleeding
• Usually (80%) diagnosed on speculum examination
• Up to 40% are screen detected
• Any clinical suspicion is an indication for referral and not for a cervical smear

Vulval Cancer:

• 1000 cases p.a. in England & Wales
• Most cases occur in women over 65 years
• Patients usually present with bleeding, discomfort, itch or a burning sensation
• 90% have a visible tumour on clinical examination