Diagnostik und Primärtherapie des Zervixkarzinoms

Cervical cancer was the most common oncological cause of death for women in the nineteenth century and is currently the second most common form of cancer in women worldwide. A lot of what we know about the progression of oncological diseases was established by studying cervical cancer as were basic concepts regarding surgical treatment (Wertheim operation), radiation therapy, screening, molecular biological basics and most recently vaccination strategies. Globally cervical cancer remains a leading health and socioeconomic problem. The fact that in Germany cervical carcinoma has ceased to be a common type of cancer remains one of the great success stories of modern medicine. The important points regarding diagnosis and therapy are summarized. In dealing with cervical cancer and the precursor lesions, particular attention must be given to a meticulous analysis of abnormalities, a thorough work-up and detailed follow-up.