Preface

Cancer of the uterine endometrium is the most common gynecological cancer in developed countries, and the most common gynecologic cancer in the USA. Obesity, diabetes and a hyper-estrogen state are common risk factors associated with the majority of uterine cancer cases. Although most women with endometrial cancer are diagnosed at an early stage, it is still a significant cause of gynecologic cancer-related morbidity and mortality. The primary treatment of endometrial cancer is surgical, however, there still remains controversy regarding the survival benefit following complete lymphadenectomy. Further, the roles of combination chemotherapeutic agents, radiotherapy techniques and hormonal treatment are continually evolving.

This first edition of *Cancer of the Uterine Endometrium - Advances and Controversies* brings together an international collaboration of authors to attempt to address these issues. Effective treatment of any gynecologic cancer is best approached via a multidisciplinary model that includes physicians, scientists and oncologic personnel, among others, to improve the outcome for women. The book is divided into four sections in an attempt to emulate this multi-faceted model of collaboration: 1) Biology and Genetics, including hereditary endometrial cancer; 2) Modern Imaging and Radiotherapy; 3) Surgery and Staging; and 4) Therapeutic Strategies. Each section brings forth the most relevant and evidence-based information for the diagnosis and treatment of endometrial cancer. In addition, controversies regarding therapeutic strategies are addressed in the context of the latest clinical studies.

This book is not intended to cover the basics of endometrial cancer. For this, one should refer to a number of excellent gynecologic oncology textbooks. Rather, the vision of this book is an international expert collaboration of the most updated advances in the biology, genetics, diagnosis, imaging, and treatment strategies for cancer of the uterine endometrium. Ultimately, it is hoped that this opens a platform for which other authors may add their work in future editions of this book. It is meant for all learners who care for women with this gynecologic cancer. It is dedicated to our women patients, our best teachers.

> **Asst. Prof. Dr. J. S. Saldivar MD, MPH**  Division of Gynecology Oncology, TTUHSC-El Paso, Texas USA

**Part 1** 

**Biology and Genetics** 
