The endometrium is the layer of tissue which lines the uterus. Each month, the endometrium thickens and renews itself, preparing for pregnancy. If a tissue resembling endometrium grows outside the uterus, it is considered endometriosis. In this article, we will discuss endometriosis and what are the differences and similarities between endometriosis and endometrial cancer.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic disease where tissue or cells similar to the lining of the uterus or endometrium grow outside the uterus. It causes painful and heavy periods, pain during intercourse, pain with bowel movements or urination, infertility, etc. The exact cause of this disease is not certain. However, retrograde menstruation (a condition where the period flows upward toward the fallopian tube instead out of the vagina) is believed to be one. Several surgical and medical therapies are available to manage symptoms, but a cure has yet to be determined.
Can endometriosis be cancerous?
No. Endometriosis is confused with cancer as endometriosis and endometrial cancer are two common gynecologic conditions that affect women. There is an abnormal growth of cells in endometriosis, but these cells do not show any malignancy. A woman with endometriosis might face serious consequences, but it is rarely fatal.
Additionally, endometriosis is associated with painful periods, painful intercourse, painful bowel movements or urination, chronic pain and severe pelvic cramping during menstruation.
What are the common things between endometriosis and endometrial cancer?
Both endometriosis and endometrial cancer are influenced by the production of the hormone estrogen. Hence, anti-estrogen therapy can be utilized to treat them.
Secondly, just like endometrial cancer, endometriosis has the ability to spread throughout the body. Similarly, endometriosis can cause angiogenesis (development of new blood vessels) and develop its own blood supply, just like in endometrial cancer. Both endometrial cancer and endometriosis appear to have some sort of genetic component.
Lastly, inflammation and abnormal vaginal bleeding are presenting symptoms for both conditions.
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