Gynecologic Cancer InterGroup (GCIG) Consensus Review for Uterine Serous Carcinoma

Abstract

ObjectivesUterine serous carcinoma (USC) represents a rare and aggressive histologic subtype of endometrial cancer, associated with a poor prognosis. This article critically reviews the literature pertinent to the epidemiology, pathology, molecular biology, diagnosis, management, and perspectives of patients with USC.MethodsAs one of a series of The Gynecologic Cancer InterGroup (GCIG) Rare Tumor Working Group in London, November 2013, we discussed about USC many times with various experts among international GCIG groups.ResultsBoth USC and approximately 25% of high-grade endometrioid tumors represent extensive copy number alterations, few DNA methylation changes, low estrogen and progesterone levels, and frequent P53mutations. Uterine serous carcinoma shares molecular characteristics with ovarian serous and basal-like breast carcinomas. In addition to optimal surgery, platinum- and taxane-based chemotherapy should be considered in the treatment of both early- and advanced-stage disease. The combination of radiation and chemotherapy appears to be associated with the highest survival rates. The role of radiation therapy in the management of this disease, with a high propensity for distant failures, remains elusive.ConclusionsUterine serous carcinoma is a unique and biologically aggressive subtype of endometrial cancer and should be studied as a distinct entity. Futures studies should identify the optimized chemotherapy and radiation regimens, sequence of therapy and schedule, and the role of targeted biologic therapy.