Diagnostic and therapeutic advances in gynecologic oncology: screening for gynecologic cancer

Endometrial carcinoma is associated with a good prognosis because patients tend to present with early disease. Mass screening is therefore unlikely to be of benefit. High-risk populations may benefit from screening, but no prospective studies have demonstrated a benefit in any population. The most promising modality for screening appears to be TVS, and a normal TVS may also preclude the need for further evaluation of symptomatic patients. The appropriate use of TVS in patients on tamoxifen is currently unknown. Hysteroscopy and endometrial biopsy may have a role in the evaluation of symptomatic patients but do not appear promising as screening modalities.