A cervical tumor is a tumor, or abnormal growth, on the cervix and is a condition that primarily indicates cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the second leading type of cancer in women, behind breast cancer. A cervical tumor results from abnormal cell growth and has been linked to the human papilloma virus, for which there is now a vaccine for certain strains. Cervical cancer can be detected with a laboratory test that examines cervical cells obtained through a gynecological procedure called a Pap test.
Like other types of cancer, cervical cancer is staged based on characteristics. Staging depends on the formation of a cervical tumor and whether or not the tumor is confined to the cervix alone or has metastasized to other areas of the vagina or pelvis.
The most effective way of screening for cervical cancer is through routine cervical Pap tests. Though not all women receive routine screening, those that do have a better chance of early diagnosis and treatment. Many women become fearful of abnormal results from cervical pap tests, but doctors generally order a second test within three months to confirm an abnormality since other factors can contribute to abnormal results.
Without cervical screening, women may not be aware of the presence of a cervical tumor until the cancer has reached a later stage and symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding or pain are present. The presence of a cervical tumor that has formed and grown can be detected with a physical cervical exam.
Treatment of a cervical tumor may include surgical removal, radiation, or chemotherapy, or a combination of all three. Treatment largely depends on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed. While the survival rate of stage I is significantly higher than advanced stages, recurrences are common and typically manifest within two years. However, early diagnosis leads to catching a cervical tumor while in its early stages of formation and significantly improves the chances for successful treatment and minimizes the evasiveness of treatment. In some cases, a radical hysterectomy is necessary and may also require radiation and chemotherapy.
The average age for developing cervical cancer is 50, though younger women are still at risk. Routine gynecological care and breast and cervical cancer screening, even after menopause, is important for all women. Young girls should see a gynecologist at the onset of puberty and parents should talk to their pediatrician, family doctor, or gynecologist about the HPV vaccine.