Can the removal of a uterine polyp reveal cancer cells?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 50-year-old female and weigh 150 pounds. Recently, I underwent a procedure to remove a uterine polyp because of spotting and discharge. After the removal, the pathology report showed the presence of cancer cells, which was unexpected. I did not have any major symptoms before this.

Can the removal of a uterine polyp reveal cancer cells at the age of 50?
Does this mean that the cancer had already started spreading?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

I want to reassure you that cancer today is not what it used to be in the past. We now have treatments for many different types of cancer and for all stages of the disease. At the age of 50, you are still well able to undergo treatment and continue your journey toward recovery.

If preserving fertility or having children is important to you, this can also be taken into consideration when planning treatment.

First, we need to perform proper staging to determine exactly which stage the cancer is in, as treatment decisions depend on this information. The fact that cancer cells were found in the polyp does not necessarily mean that there is metastasis. The cancer may still be localized within the uterus and may not have spread to the lymph nodes or nearby organs.

The next important step is to undergo imaging studies, such as an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CT (computed tomography) scans of the chest and abdomen, so that the exact stage can be determined. Once this information is available, the most appropriate treatment plan can be selected.

Many uterine cancers can be treated successfully, and the situation is often much more manageable than people initially fear. There are many cases with very good outcomes, and many test results ultimately prove reassuring.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.