Inquiry on Stage 1 Endometrial Cancer Diagnosis
Hello, my mother isn’t familiar with Reddit, so I’m reaching out on her behalf. She was informed today that she has stage 1 endometrial cancer, following the removal of polyps and a thickened uterine lining two weeks prior. The physician has recommended a complete hysterectomy, stating this procedure should effectively treat her condition. Additionally, the doctor mentioned that based on her observations regarding the cancer’s characteristics, there may be a hereditary genetic mutation involved. What specific genetic mutation could this be, and what is the likelihood that it could be inherited by me and my daughter? Also, could you provide insights into my mother’s prognosis considering this diagnosis? Is chemotherapy a necessity in her case? We appreciate any information you can provide, as this situation has caught us off guard, and we have many questions to address.
Answers (1)
2/13/2026, 4:10:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your mother's diagnosis; I understand this is a challenging situation for your family. I'll provide you with information regarding stage 1 endometrial cancer, potential genetic implications, and her prognosis.
Main Points
- Potential Genetic Mutations: The most common hereditary predispositions related to endometrial cancer are associated with Lynch syndrome, which can involve mutations in genes such as MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2.
- Prognosis & Treatment: Stage 1 endometrial cancer generally has a favorable prognosis, especially when treated proactively with a complete hysterectomy, which is the standard treatment. Chemotherapy may not be necessary unless there are specific indications of higher risk.
- Inheritance Considerations: If there is a hereditary mutation such as Lynch syndrome, the risk of passing it on to you or your daughter is about 50%, as these mutations can be inherited in an autosomal dominant manner.
Explanation
- Genetic Mutations: Endometrial cancer may be linked to inheritable syndromes, with Lynch syndrome being one of the most notable. Testing for these mutations can be valuable for family planning and assessing cancer risks for family members.
- Prognosis: For stage 1 endometrial cancer, when contained within the uterus, survival rates are typically high, with many patients living long, healthy lives post-treatment. The complete hysterectomy ideally removes the cancerous tissue and prevents further progression.
- Need for Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is not routinely required for early-stage endometrial cancer, particularly if it is well-differentiated (low grade). Your mother's healthcare team will make recommendations based on the cancer's characteristics post-surgery and any potential genetic factors.
Next Steps
- Genetic Counseling: Consider consulting with a genetic counselor. They can guide your family on testing for genetic mutations and assess the risks to you and your daughter.
- Surgery Preparation: Encourage your mother to focus on health optimization before the surgery, including following her doctor's advice on diet and exercise.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend follow-up appointments with her to stay informed about treatment outcomes and discuss any additional steps, like monitoring or adjuvant therapies based on pathology results after surgery.
Feel free to ask more specific questions as you navigate this journey with your mother. Your proactive approach and support will be incredibly valuable for her during this time.
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