Glassy cell carcinoma of the cervix

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia


Glassy cell carcinoma of the cervix, also glassy cell carcinoma, is a rare aggressive malignant tumour of the uterine cervix.[1] The tumour gets its name from its microscopic appearance; its cytoplasm has a glass-like appearance.

Signs and symptoms[edit | edit source]

The signs and symptoms are similar to other cervical cancers and may include post-coital bleeding and/or pain during intercourse (dyspareunia). Early lesions may be completely asymptomatic.

Cause[edit | edit source]


Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The diagnosis is based on tissue examination, e.g. biopsy.

Under the microscope, glassy cell carcinoma tumours are composed of cells with a glass-like cytoplasm, typically associated with an inflammatory infiltrate abundant in eosinophils and very mitotically active. PAS staining highlights the plasma membrane.[2]

Treatment[edit | edit source]

The treatment is dependent on the stage. Advanced tumours are treated with surgery (radical hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-opherectomy), radiation therapy and chemotherapy.[2]

See also[edit | edit source]

Additional images[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. 2.0 2.1

Further reading[edit | edit source]


External links[edit | edit source]

Classification
  • ICD-10: C53.0 C53.1 C53.8
External resources



Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD