Synchronous primary endometrial adenocarcinoma and primary squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix: A case report and literature review

Abstract

The synchronous occurrence of primary endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinoma and primary squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix is exceedingly rare. Ovarian and endometrial cancers represent the most frequently observed forms of synchronous gynaecological malignancies. In contrast, in less than 1 % of cases, endometrial cancer coexists with primary cervical cancer. Considering the unique characteristics of each primary malignancy, the management of synchronous tumours of the female genital tract poses significant challenges and requires a multidisciplinary, tailored approach to treatment.

This report concerns the case of a 63-year-old woman who underwent radical hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection following a histological diagnosis of a poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma on cervical biopsy. Histological assessment of the surgical specimen also confirmed a primary grade I endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinoma confined to the endometrium and grade 3 squamous cell cancer of the cervix. The patient was successfully treated with adjuvant vaginal brachytherapy after primary surgery.

Synchronous endometrial adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix is rare and associated with a poor prognosis. Fewer than ten cases could be found in the medical literature. This report raises awareness and adds to the study of an unusual synchronous cancer of the female genital tract and contributes evidence to advance the development of standardized treatment protocols.