Gynecologic Oncology

Gynecologic oncology is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of cancers affecting the female reproductive system, including the uterus, ovaries, cervix, fallopian tubes, vulva, and vagina. Gynecologic oncologists are trained in the surgical and medical management of gynecologic cancers, and they work closely with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to women with these malignancies

“We take care of our patients when they’re diagnosed, we handle their surgeries, then we go on to chemotherapy and whatever they need. We do all this hopefully to a cure, but for others, we are with them every step of the process”

– B.J. Rimel MD, Gynecologic Oncology

Expertise and Collaboration between medical oncologists and gynecologic oncologists at The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute is a crucial aspect of the multidisciplinary approach to managing gynecologic cancers. Medical oncologists are physicians who specialize in the background of systemic therapies, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, to treat cancer. This partnership starts from the initial diagnosis and staging of gynecologic cancers to determine the appropriate systemic therapies based on the stage, type, and characteristics of the cancer, as well as the overall health and medical history of the patient.

Close collaboration allows for personalized and evidence-based treatment decisions, taking into account the unique needs and characteristics of each patient. After surgical interventions, such as hysterectomy or removal of ovaries and lymph nodes, our multidisciplinary team meets to provide adjuvant therapies, which are additional treatments given after surgery to lower the risk of recurrence or to treat remaining cancer cells. This may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy, depending on the specific cancer type ,stage, and genomic sequencing of a patients tumor tissue.

Early detection and comprehensive management by gynecologic oncologists are critical in improving outcomes for women with these malignancies. Regular communication and coordination between our therapeutic team, including radiation oncologists and supportive care physicians. are vital for the optimal care of patients with gynecologic cancers. This includes discussions about treatment plans, potential side effects of systemic therapies, and monitoring of treatment response -- ultimately improving outcomes and quality of life.

Endometrial cancer, also known as uterine cancer, is a type of gynecologic cancer that originates in the lining of the uterus called the endometrium. It is the most common type of gynecologic cancer, and it typically presents with abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or an enlarged uterus. Endometrial cancer is often diagnosed through a combination of imaging studies, biopsy, and surgical staging. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the stage and characteristics of the tumor.

Ovarian cancer is a challenging gynecologic cancer that arises from the ovaries, which are the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs and female hormones. Ovarian cancer is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it is usually asymptomatic in its early stages, and symptoms such as abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, or changes in bowel or bladder habits may not manifest until the cancer has advanced. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies, blood tests, and surgical exploration. Treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy, depending on the stage and subtype of ovarian cancer.

Cervical cancer is a type of gynecologic cancer that develops in the cervix, the narrow lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is often caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. Cervical cancer may present with abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or changes in vaginal discharge. Screening tests, such as the Pap test and HPV testing, are crucial for early detection of cervical cancer. Treatment options for cervical cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the stage and characteristics of the tumor.

Bladder Cancer

Bladder Cancer occurs when cells abnormally develop and evolve into a tumor within the bladder where the body stores urine. The reasons for the development of this cancer are not widely attributed to any one cause but have been linked to carcinogen exposure such as that from cigarette smoke and industrial chemicals. Symptoms of bladder cancer include: blood in the urine, back pain and changes in urinary habits. Like the other forms of cancer there are many types of bladder cancer and early diagnosis is associated with the best outcomes. Treatment may consist of chemotherapy, radiation, immunology and surgery. Follow up care is critical as bladder cancer can return after treatment.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian Cancer is a type of cancer that occurs within one or both of the ovaries of females due to the abnormal growth and development of ovarian cells. The ovaries are an internal part of the female reproductive system and due to their location within the body symptoms of early or advanced ovarian cancer development may not be present. As with other forms of cancer early detection and diagnosis is the most important factor in achieving the best possible outcome with treatment. This type of cancer is generally treated with chemotherapy and surgical intervention and over 20,000 women in the US are expected to be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2020.

Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial Cancer is a type of cancer that develops within the uterus of a female particularly within the endometrium, a layer of tissue that makes up the uterus. The uterus is part of the female reproductive system and is the location where fetal development occurs during pregnancy. In 2020 over 65 thousand women will be diagnosed with endometrial cancer, this is the most common type of cancer of the female reproductive system. Symptoms of endometrial cancer include: spotting, abdominal or pelvic pain and changes of the menstrual cycle. Treatment can include a number of options such as chemotherapy, hormone based therapy, surgical intervention and radiation.

Cervical Cancer

The cervix is a part of the female reproductive system that is located at the roof of the vaginal canal, circular in form and with a small round opening serving as a gateway between the vagina and the uterus. Cervical cancer occurs when cells within the cervix develop abnormally and grow out of control. However, cervical screening can be performed by your OB/GYN provider at your annual exam or if you feel you are at risk. There is a link between Human Papillomavirus infection and the development of cervical cancer and this can be screened for with a pap smear or pap test. Vaccines are also available for the prevention of HPV infection furthering the ability to prevent the development of cervical cancer. While symptoms may not be present in the early stages of cervical cancer development the treatment routes include chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy. Your physician will personalize your treatment course based on your specific clinical picture and risk factors.