Cervical Carcinoma in Pregnancy: Assessing the Diagnostic and Therapeutic Options.

Abstract

Invasive cervical cancer is an infrequent complication of pregnancy, but it remains a significant cause of morbidity worldwide. When cervical cancer is suspected or diagnosed during pregnancy, the clinician must confront the potential risk to both the mother and the fetus. Due to the relative infrequency of this condition, guidelines for management are not clearly defined. Over the last several years, some investigators have reported on and advocated a more conservative approach to the management of this disease. This report assesses the recent literature on the evaluation and management options of invasive cervical cancer detected during pregnancy. Although delay of therapy may allow for maturation of the fetus, the data are currently insufficient to recommend a prolonged delay in treatment of the pregnant woman for advanced or even stage I disease. However, the available literature regarding a carefully planned, brief delay in therapy is encouraging, and all options should be presented to the patient. Ultimately, the management of invasive cervical cancer during pregnancy requires collaboration on the part of the patient, her family, and the entire multidisciplinary health care team, including the obstetrician, neonatologist, gynecologic oncologist, radiation oncologist, and social and psychiatric support personnel.