Progestogens in endometrial cancer

Abstract

Hysterectomy is the treatment choice for patients with endometrial cancer, but progesterone may be an acceptable option for young women who wish to preserve their fertility or for women with severe co-morbidities. Although progestin therapy of low-grade early-stage endometrial carcinoma has been utilized for years, many questions remain unanswered. Cohort studies show a high chance of disease regression (65–76 %) and encouraging live birth rates (28–35 %). The risk of disease relapse during follow-up is significant but overall outcome and survival are not jeopardized by well controlled temporary conservative treatment. Young women desiring to pursue this treatment need to undergo thorough counseling, extensive work-up, and close follow-up and should undergo hysterectomy once family planning is complete.