Translating biological insights into improved management of endometrial cancer

Abstract

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common gynaecological cancer among women in high-income countries, with both incidence and mortality continuing to increase. The complexity of the management of patients with EC has evolved with greater comprehension of the underlying biology and heterogeneity of this disease. With a growing number of novel therapeutic agents available, emerging treatment regimens seem to have the potential to help to address the concerning trends in EC-related mortality. In this Review, we describe the epidemiology, histopathology and molecular classification of EC as well as the role of the new (2023) International Federation of Gynecologists and Obstetricians (FIGO) staging model. Furthermore, we provide an overview of disease management in the first-line and recurrent disease settings. With increasing use of molecular profiling and updates in treatment paradigms, we also summarize new developments in this rapidly changing treatment landscape. Endometrial cancer is the commonest gynaecological cancer in economically developed countries, and both the incidence and mortality continue to increase. This increasing prevalence highlights the need for novel treatment approaches that will improve patient outcomes. In this Review, the authors describe the epidemiology and standard-of-care treatment approaches for patients with endometrial cancer, as well as highlighting the importance of understanding tumour biology and incorporating this knowledge into better-informed treatment strategies for specific subgroups of patients.