Work

An Unexpected Case of Clear Cell Adenocarcinoma of the Cervix in a Non-Diethylstilbestrol-Exposed Postmenopausal Woman

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Clear cell adenocarcinoma of the cervix (CCAC) is a rare subtype of cervical adenocarcinoma. It has been linked to intrauterine exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) but can happen in non-DES-exposed patients, albeit less commonly. Presentation is largely vaginal bleeding, emphasizing the importance of considering CCAC in the differential of abnormal vaginal bleeding despite the tumor's rarity. We present the case of a non-DES-exposed 68-year-old woman who presented with postmenopausal bleeding (PMB). The patient underwent total abdominal hysterectomy after misdiagnosis as clear cell endometrial adenocarcinoma, later diagnosed as CCAC. We encourage consideration of clear cell adenocarcinoma of the cervix in the differential diagnosis of PMB even in patients without DES exposure and for physicians to advocate for patients to keep up to date with cervical cancer screenings.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.76083

Authors: Denise Baloi, William J Smith, Robin Samyn

Institutions: Wayne State University, Detroit Medical Center, Michigan State University

Language: English

Topic: Endometrial and Cervical Cancer Treatments

Subfield: Obstetrics and Gynecology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4405635643