Endometriosis vs Endometrial Cancer: What You Should Know

Endometriosis and endometrial cancer are not the same condition.

Although their names sound similar and they may share overlapping symptoms such as pelvic pain or heavy menstrual bleeding, they are distinct and unrelated medical diagnoses.

Most importantly:

Endometriosis is not cancer, and it does not cause endometrial cancer.

This article explains how these two conditions differ in terms of cause, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus.

These growths, often called lesions, are commonly found:

• On the ovaries
• On the fallopian tubes
• On the outer surface of the uterus
• Throughout the pelvic cavity

Endometriosis is relatively common, affecting up to 10% of women of reproductive age, most often diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s.

It is a benign condition, meaning it is not cancer.

What Is Endometrial Cancer?

Endometrial cancer is a type of uterine cancer that begins in the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus.

It occurs when cells in the uterine lining grow abnormally and form a malignant tumor that can potentially spread to other parts of the body.

While it is the most common gynecologic cancer, it is far less common than endometriosis. The average age at diagnosis is around 60, and it is rare in women under 45.

The Most Important Difference

• Endometriosis is a non-cancerous chronic condition.
• Endometrial cancer is a malignant disease.
• One does not cause the other.

Despite similarities in terminology, they are medically unrelated conditions.

Risk Factors for Endometriosis vs. Endometrial Cancer

The exact causes of both conditions are not fully understood, but researchers have identified risk factors.

You May Be at Higher Risk for Endometriosis If:

• You have a family history of endometriosis
• You started menstruating before age 11
• Your menstrual cycles are shorter than 27 days
• You have heavy periods lasting longer than 7 days
• You have infertility (https://asktia.com/article/endometriosis-pregnancy-infertility/)
• You have never given birth or had children later in life

You May Be at Higher Risk for Endometrial Cancer If:

• You have never been pregnant
• You have obesityYou have been diagnosed with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) (https://asktia.com/services/pcos/)
• You use certain forms of hormone therapy
• You have a family history of certain cancers
• You are Black (Black women are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages and have higher mortality rates)

Symptoms of Endometriosis vs. Endometrial Cancer

Some symptoms overlap, but others are more specific to one condition.

Postmenopausal bleeding is a major red flag symptom for endometrial cancer and requires prompt medical evaluation.

How Endometriosis Is Diagnosed

Healthcare providers may initially suspect endometriosis based on:

• Medical history
• Pelvic examination
• Ultrasound imaging

However, the only definitive way to diagnose endometriosis is through laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows visualization of lesions and biopsy confirmation. If you are experiencing endometriosis symptoms do not hesitate to schedule an appointment.

How Endometrial Cancer Is Diagnosed

Because endometrial cancer begins inside the uterus, it is typically evaluated using:

• Medical history
• Pelvic examination
• Transvaginal ultrasound
• Endometrial biopsy

An endometrial biopsy is the key diagnostic test, as it allows for microscopic examination of abnormal cells.

Treatment Options for Endometriosis

Since endometriosis is not cancer, treatment focuses on symptom management and quality of life improvement.

Common treatments include:

• Pain relievers such as NSAIDs
• Hormonal medications (birth control pills, GnRH agonists)
• Laparoscopic surgery to remove lesions

Laparoscopy can both diagnose and treat endometriosis.

To schedule an appointment for endometriosis treatment click here.

Treatment Options for Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial cancer treatment depends on stage and severity but often includes:

• Total hysterectomy (removal of uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries)
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Hormone therapy

Early-stage disease is often highly treatable with surgery alone.

Conclusion

Although endometriosis and endometrial cancer both involve the uterine lining, their similarities largely end with terminology.

• Endometriosis is a chronic, painful but benign condition.
• Endometrial cancer is a malignant disease requiring oncologic treatment.
• Endometriosis does not turn into endometrial cancer.

If you are experiencing symptoms, especially abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods or after menopause, consult a healthcare provider promptly for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Early assessment leads to better outcomes in both conditions.