Minimal deviation adenocarcinoma of the uterine cervix

Precise preoperative diagnosis of minimal deviation adenocarcinoma (MDA) of the uterine cervix is often difficult because the histological features of MDA closely resemble those of normal cervical glands.

To review the developments in the diagnosis and treatment of MDA over the past 35 years.

We performed a meta-analysis of all case reports published in the English and Chinese languages between 1975 and 2009 that included a histopathologic diagnosis of MDA. Pooled odds ratios and 95% CIs were calculated for comparisons and analyzed.

The histopathologic diagnosis of MDA remains difficult and is currently based on antigen detection by immunohistochemistry. Cytologic assessment and routine biopsy have low detection rates for MDA. Cross-sectional imaging techniques are helpful but a deep cervical biopsy or cervical conization is necessary for a definitive diagnosis. The mean survival is about 5 years for patients with stage I, 38.1 months for patients with stage II, 22.8 months for patients with stage III, and 5.4 months for patients with stage IV MDA.

Early diagnosis and treatment are key to improving prognosis and survival in patients with MDA.