Chemo-conization in early cervical cancer

The aim of the present study is to support the safety and feasibility of chemo-conization for early-stage cervical tumor in young patients wishing to preserve their fertility. METHODS: Between October 2004 and November 2006, eleven patients were scheduled for conservative treatment. Subjects were selected for this treatment on the basis of favorable cervical tumors (<3 cm) and a desire to maintain fertility. All patients underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by conization or conization alone with pelvic lymphadenectomy. Obstetrical and oncologic outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The mean age of the eleven patients was 32 (range: 24-41), Figo Stage was IB1 in 8 cases and 3 cases were Stage IA2. Histological findings were squamous cell carcinoma in 5 patients and adenocarcinoma in 6 patients. Two patients were treated with TEP regimen every 3 weeks for three courses, while one patient had adjuvant chemotherapy with TEP. No recurrences were observed after a median follow-up of 20 months (range 7-29 months). Three pregnancies occurred during the follow-up period. Although the number is small, in selected patients this conservative approach seems to be feasible to cure early-stage cervical cancer therefore maintaining fertility.