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Specialties

Welcome to Gynecologic Oncology at Crystal Run. Gynecological oncology doctors focus on cancers of the female reproductive system, including ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, vaginal cancer, cervical cancer, and vulvar cancer.

Treatment for cancer in the female reproductive organs requires an individualized plan tailored to each person’s diagnosis. Our physicians use state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose and treat cancer in all stages. Our women’s health center also has dedicated imaging technology for reliable diagnostic use.

We offer the full spectrum of gynecologic oncology care, including:

  • Consultations
  • Screenings
  • Genetic counseling and testing for women at risk for breast, ovarian, endometrial, and colon cancer
  • Minimally invasive and robotic surgery
  • Complex radical and reconstructive cancer surgery
  • Complex gynecologic surgery
  • Chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up care

 

Common Types of Gynecologic Cancer Treated

Gynecologic oncology covers various types of reproductive organ cancer and related conditions. The following are examples of common cancers our gynecology oncology specialists can treat at our OB/GYN oncology center.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer develops in the ovaries, eventually causing abdominal pain, bloating, pelvic discomfort, weight loss, bowel issues, frequent urination, abnormal periods, etc. Early stages are often asymptomatic, so the cancer is often only discovered after it has spread. Earlier diagnosis means a greater likelihood of treatment success.

Risk factors include a family history of ovarian cancer, certain gene mutations, hormone replacement therapy (estrogen), aging, early menstruation, and/or late menopause.

Uterine Cancer

There are two primary types of uterine cancer: endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma. Endometrial cancer is the most common and develops in the uterine lining (the endometrium). Uterine sarcoma is rare and develops in the muscle and fiber of the uterine walls.

Common symptoms include heavy periods, spotting between periods, and bleeding after sex. Some may feel a vaginal mass or experience pain during sex and/or urination. Risk factors include heredity, obesity, aging, and prolonged elevation of estrogen levels.

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix, causing unusual vaginal bleeding, pelvic discomfort, painful intercourse, and watery, bloody, or foul-smelling discharge. The human papillomavirus (HPV) plays a major role, but not all people with HPV develop cancer. Other risk factors include smoking, STIs, poor immune health, and having multiple sex partners.

Vaginal Cancer

Vaginal cancer is a rare gynecological cancer that develops in the lining of the vagina. Often asymptomatic early on, but vaginal bleeding, painful urination, watery discharge, pelvic pain, and vaginal masses can develop. Risk factors for vaginal cancer include age, smoking, HIV, and having multiple sex partners.

Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar cancer affects the external female genital area known as the vulva. It typically first appears as a lump or sore, often accompanied by itching. These can be mistaken for symptoms of STIs, so a medical exam is key to detecting vulvar cancer. Other symptoms like skin thickening, changes to skin color, unexplained bleeding, and vulva tenderness may also develop.

Risk factors for vulvar cancer include age, smoking, poor immune health, certain skin conditions, HPV exposure, and a history of certain precancerous conditions.

 

Benign and Precancerous Conditions

Some gynecological conditions only produce benign tumors and increase cancer risks. Our gynecology cancer doctors can also diagnose these issues.

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that occur in the uterus. They may be asymptomatic, especially if they’re small and few in number. As fibroids become larger and more plentiful, they can cause symptoms like pelvic pain, urination problems, constipation, abdominal pressure, and long, heavy periods. Genetics and hormones are thought to be major contributors.

Lynch Syndrome

Lynch Syndrome is a hereditary condition that increases the risk of several kinds of cancer, including colorectal and endometrial cancers. In families with a history of Lynch Syndrome, these cancers occur more often and at earlier ages. Patients with such a family history can undergo genetic testing to identify mutations. If the tests are positive, doctors can monitor them for early signs of cancer.

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