What do we expect from imaging?

The objectives of imaging in gynecologic cancer include tumor detection, tumor diagnosis, staging, and follow-up. In addition, both monitoring response to treatment and differentiating tumor recurrence from post-treatment changes are important indications for imaging. In 2001 it was estimated that there would be 38,300 cases of endometrial cancer, 23,400 cases of ovarian cancer, and 12,900 cases of cervical cancer. This article reviews what information is required by the practicing gynecologist or gynecologic oncologist prior to surgery and briefly summarizes state-of-the-art imaging in answering clinically pertinent questions.