An update on post-treatment surveillance and diagnosis of recurrence in women with gynecologic malignancies: Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) recommendations

• Published in: Gynecologic oncology Vol. 146; no. 1; pp. 3 - 10
• Main Authors: Salani, Ritu, Khanna, Namita, Frimer, Marina, Bristow, Robert E., Chen, Lee-may
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01.07.2017
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Cytology; Female; Genital Neoplasms, Female - diagnosis; Gynecologic cancer; Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Medicine; Humans; Imaging; Middle Aged; Neoplasm Recurrence, Local - diagnosis; Obstetrics and Gynecology; Pap test; Surveillance; Tumor markers; Pap test; Tumor markers; Surveillance; Gynecologic cancer; Imaging; Cytology
• ISSN: 0090-8258; 1095-6859; 1095-6859
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2017.03.022

Gynecologic cancers account for ~12% of all new cancer cases in women and ~15% of all female cancer survivors. Current and continued advances within the field have resulted in long-term outcomes and a high rate of survivors. Therefore determining the most cost-effective clinical surveillance for detection of recurrence is critical. Unfortunately, there has been a paucity of research regarding the most effective strategies for surveillance after patients have achieved a complete response. Currently, most recommendations are based on retrospective studies and expert opinion. Taking a thorough history, performing a thorough examination, and educating cancer survivors about concerning symptoms are the most effective methods for the detection of most gynecologic cancer recurrences. There is very little evidence that routine cytology or imaging improves the ability to detect gynecologic cancer recurrence that will impact cure or response rates to salvage therapy. This article provides an update on surveillance for gynecologic cancer recurrence in women who have had a complete response to primary cancer therapy. •Surveillance strategies for gynecologic cancer vary based on stage and recurrence risk.•Review of symptoms, physical exam, and education are the most effective methods in surveillance.•Data supports limiting/eliminating routine imaging and cytology in the surveillance period.