Secondary cytoreductive surgery in recurrent clear cell carcinoma of the endometrium: A case report

INTRODUCTION & IMPORTANCE: Endometrial cancer with high-risk histology is associated with a majority of recurrences and death. However, unlike other cancers, such as ovarian, there is a paucity of research demonstrating the benefits of secondary cytoreduction. In this case report we aim to aid in identifying individuals who may be ideal candidates for secondary cytoreduction surgery after minimally invasive hysterectomy and staging by a gynecologic oncologist at an academic institution and diagnosed with clear cell endometrial cancer. CASE PRESENTATION: A 72 year-old female patient presented with postmenopausal bleeding and was subsequently diagnosed with Stage IIIC2 clear cell carcinoma of the endometrium. She represented 20 months after receiving initial staging and adjuvant chemotherapy with increasing CA-125 levels and radiographic evidence of left para-aortic lymph node oligo metastasis. She underwent secondary cytoreductive surgery via robotic-assisted laparoscopic para-aortic lymph node dissection and salvage chemotherapy. After 45 months of follow-up physical exam, CA-125 levels and CT of the abdomen and pelvis have remained without evidence of disease. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: We review the literature on secondary cytoreductive surgery (SCS) in endometrial cancer (EC) to identify factors associated with improved survival. CONCLUSION: Secondary cytoreduction in endometrial cancer may lead to prolonged progression-free survival in well-selected patients.