Histopathological Patterns of Cervical Cancer Among Females Presenting to Makerere University Pathology Core Reference Laboratory. A 5-Year Review

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The global burden of cervical cancer is heavy in low- and middle-income countries, having highest rates in sub-Saharan Africa. Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer morbidity and mortality in Ugandan women with estimated 6959 new cases and 4607 deaths in 2020. The histopathological differentiation of cervical cancer is a major determinant in treatment options and prognosis of disease. However, there is paucity of data regarding this in Uganda. The study aimed to determine the histopathological pattern of cervical cancer among females presenting to Makerere university pathology core reference laboratory.  METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional study employing the use of quantitative methods of data collection was conducted within Makerere university pathology core reference laboratory. Information on patients with cervical cancer diagnosis by histology from 2017-2021 was obtained and analyzed using SPSS version 18.  RESULTS: A total of 120 patients from 2017-2021 were recruited. The mean age was 47.5(SD 13.1), the youngest and oldest patients were 21 and 80 years respectively. Cervical cancer was more prevalent in women aged between 35 to 54 years 77(64.2%) and women with HIV 26(21.7%). Squamous cell carcinoma presents in 102(85%) patients was the most prevalent pattern of cervical cancer. This was followed by adenocarcinoma 7(5.8%) and adenosquamous 5(4.2%).  CONCLUSIONS: Cervical cancer is predominant among women with HIV and women aged 35-55 years. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most prevalent pattern of cervical cancer in Uganda present in every 9 out 10 patients. Routine screening of all HIV positive women and women aged 35 and above is recommended