Peritoneal cytology in endometrial cancer

Abstract

The results as well as prognostic interpretation of peritoneal washing cytology in endometrial cancer cases is still controversial. The incidence rate of positive cytology varies widely and the clinical significance of the positive results, especially in patients with early stage of endometrial cancer remains also controversial. Prognostic significance of malignant peritoneal cytology in endometrial cancer patients in comparison with those with ovarian cancer has been less well defined. At present, positive peritoneal cytology is not a negative prognostic factor itself, but it enhance other negative prognostic indicators. Literature regarding the significance of peritoneal cytology in endometrial cancer was reviewed in order to draw conclusions for possible therapeutic implications in patients with positive cytologic findings.