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Cancers We Treat

Gynecologic cancer

What are gynecological cancers? Baptist Cancer Center provides information about gynecological cancers, which affect the female reproductive organs.

Gynecologic Cancer Explained

Gynecologic cancer is the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells originating in the female reproductive organs, including the cervix, Fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus, vagina and vulva.

Like other parts of the body, the organs of the reproductive system are made up of many types of cells. Cells divide in an orderly, controlled way to produce more cells when they are needed in the body. When cells divide in an abnormal, uncontrolled way, they can form a tumor.

Gynecologic cancer affects many women, with about 80,000 new cases diagnosed in the United States each year. About half of those cases are uterine cancer. Ovarian cancer, with more than 22,000 new cases estimated per year, is the second most common gynecologic cancer, and it accounts for more than 16,000 deaths annually.

Gynecologic cancer is a serious disease, but in the majority of cases it can be treated and cured. Our gynecological cancer physicians and specialists are dedicated to fighting cancer with you as a team and providing you with the most comprehensive care possible.

The Different Types of Gynecologic Cancer

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Germ cell ovarian tumors
Ovarian germ cell tumors form in the egg cells of the ovary. About the size and shape of an almond, the ovary is an organ that makes eggs and female hormones. Germ cell tumors in the ovaries typically form in young girls and teenagers.
Germ cell testicular tumors
Germ cell tumors in the testes are indicated by an enlarged, painful mass. Though rare, germ cell tumors in uncorrected, undescended testes are more common. About 95 percent of testicular cancers begin in germ cells.
Germ cell brain tumors
Germ cell tumors in the brain form in the pineal or supraseller regions. These uncommon tumors occur primarily between the ages of 11 and 30. They account for three to five percent of childhood brain tumors. The exact cause is not known.

Learn the Symptoms, Stages and Causes

Recognizing the signs of germ cell tumors allows for timely intervention, potentially increasing the chances of successful treatment and improving your quality of life.

What are germ cell tumors causes and risk factors?

Doctors don’t yet fully understand the cause of germ cell tumors. Several inherited defects have been associated with an increased risk for the disease, including:

  • Central nervous system malformations
  • Genitourinary tract malformations
  • Lower spine malformations
  • Males with undescended testes (cryptorchidism)
  • Extra or missing sex chromosomes

What do the breast cancer stages mean?

Breast cancer stages help patients and doctors determine prognosis, breast cancer treatment options and clinical trial participation. Breast cancer is classified by the stage, or progression, that it's in when discovered.

The stages range from stage 0, meaning the cancer is non-invasive, to stage IV, which means the cancer has metastasized, or moved to different parts of the body.

What are the symptoms of germ cell tumors?

Germ cell tumor symptoms vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Symptoms can include:

  • Swelling
  • A mass that can be felt
  • Abdominal pain
  • Constipation or incontinence
  • Leg weakness
  • Irregularity in testicular size or shape
  • Shortness of breath (for germ cell tumors in the chest or lungs)
  • Elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein and beta-human chorionic gonadotropic

Symptoms of germ cell cancer may resemble other medical issues or conditions. If you experience germ cell tumor symptoms, consult your doctor.

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Related Information

Connect With a Patient Navigator

As a patient at Baptist Cancer Center, you will have access to a dedicated patient navigator who will act as your advocate and liaison between you and your health care teams. Our patient navigators are available at every step to schedule appointments, answer questions, explain the treatment process, and provide resources, education and support when you and your family need it.