Management of gynecological cancers during pregnancy

Curr Oncol Rep. 2014 Dec;16(12):415. doi: 10.1007/s11912-014-0415-z.

Abstract

The diagnosis of a gynecological malignancy during pregnancy is rare but not uncommon. Cancer treatment during pregnancy is possible, but both maternal and fetal interests need to be respected. Different treatment plans may be justifiable and multidisciplinary treatment is advised. Clinical trials are virtually impossible, and current evidence is mainly based on small case series and expert opinion. Individualization of treatment is necessary and based on tumor type, stage, and gestational age at time of diagnosis. Termination of pregnancy is not necessary in most cases. Surgery and chemotherapy (second trimester and onwards) are possible types of treatment during pregnancy. Radiotherapy of the pelvic area is not compatible with an ongoing pregnancy. This article discusses the current recommendations for the management of gynecological malignancies (cervical, ovarian, and vulvar cancers) during pregnancy.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Female
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female / diagnosis
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female / pathology
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female / therapy*
  • Gynecologic Surgical Procedures*
  • Humans
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic / diagnosis
  • Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic / pathology
  • Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic / therapy*
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Prenatal Diagnosis
  • Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects
  • Prognosis
  • Risk Factors
  • Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy / methods*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents