The use of cisplatin to treat advanced-stage cervical cancer during pregnancy allows fetal development and prevents cancer progression: report of a case and review of the literature

Int J Gynecol Cancer. 2009 Feb;19(2):273-6. doi: 10.1111/IGC.0b013e31819bcff8.

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer is one of the most frequently encountered malignancies in pregnancy. For early-stage disease arising in late second/third trimester, treatment may be delayed until delivery. However, in advanced disease, data are lacking.

Case: A 26-year-old woman presented at 21 weeks gestation with a stage IIB high-grade clear cell cervical carcinoma. At 25 + 1 weeks gestation, cisplatin 100 mg/m(2) every 21 days was commenced. One month after cycle 3, a healthy infant was delivered. Thereafter, further cisplatin, intracavity cesium, and chemoradiation were administered. Findings from subsequent clinical examination and magnetic resonance imaging were normal. Fifteen months post treatment, both patient and baby remain well.

Conclusion: Neoadjuvant cisplatin chemotherapy can be used in stage IIB cervical carcinoma during pregnancy to allow fetal development and prevent disease progression before delivery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma, Clear Cell / drug therapy*
  • Adenocarcinoma, Clear Cell / pathology
  • Adenocarcinoma, Clear Cell / radiotherapy
  • Adult
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Cisplatin / therapeutic use*
  • Disease Progression
  • Female
  • Fetal Development / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / pathology
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / radiotherapy

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Cisplatin