Uterine carcinosarcomas: From pathology to practice.

Area of Science:

• Gynecologic Oncology
• Medical Oncology

Background:

• Uterine carcinosarcoma (UCS) is a rare and aggressive malignancy.
• Limited data exists for early-stage UCS treatment strategies.
• UCS is characterized by a biphasic tumor composition, contributing to its aggressive behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature and findings from the 2019 NRG Oncology Group Summer Symposium.
• To focus on molecular targets, ongoing clinical trials, and treatment paradigms for early and advanced/recurrent UCS.
• To provide an overview of the evolving treatment landscape for uterine carcinosarcoma.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of MEDLINE for peer-reviewed publications on UCS.
• Inclusion of English language publications regardless of year or study design.
• Query of ClinicalTrials.gov for active clinical trials investigating UCS.

Main Results:

• Retrospective data suggests adjuvant therapy is beneficial for early-stage UCS.
• The GOG 261 trial provides valuable insights into paclitaxel and carboplatin regimens for UCS.
• New targeted agents are under investigation in ongoing clinical trials for UCS.

Conclusions:

• Uterine carcinosarcoma patients are increasingly included in endometrial cancer clinical trials.
• Advances in molecular profiling are expected to enhance therapeutic options for UCS.
• Surgical resection and conventional chemotherapy remain the current standard of care for UCS.