Tests for endometrial cancer

• Endometrial biopsy

“Pipelle” or aspiration biopsy – carried out in outpatients. It involves sucking out (aspirating) cells from the uterus using a syringe and pipelle catheter and is a similar procedure to having a cervical smear test.

• Transvaginal ultrasound

The probe is inserted into the vagina to perform the scan this takes the scanner closer to the uterus than a trans abdominal scan and facilitates a more detailed examination of the lining of the uterus

• Hysteroscopy

An endoscope is inserted into the uterus under local or general anaesthetic, biopsies can be taken of any abnormal looking areas at the same time.

• Tumour markers

CA125 may be raised in some women with endometrial cancer.

• Computerised Tomography (CT) and/or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan

To check for spread of the tumour through the wall of the uterus into the pelvis or elsewhere.

There is no national screening programme for women with endometrial cancer but some women at high risk are screened on the NHS.

Amended April 2008