Small cell carcinoma of the cervix (SCCC) is rare, constituting less than 1% of all gynecologic malignancies. SCCC is microscopically indistinguishable from the lung. Neuroendocrine differentiation is often manifested by a histological growth pattern, argyrophilia, ultrastructural demonstration of secretory granules, and expression of neuroendocrine markers. In general, SCCC have an aggressive clinical course with a propensity for extensive local invasion and distant metastases. Therapy has included surgery, radiation and chemotherapy similar to those regimens use for small cell carcinoma of the lung. However, multimodality therapy is appropriate in most patients thought to be candidates for aggressive, potentially curative treatment.
Small cell carcinoma of the cervix (SCCC) is rare, constituting less than 1% of all gynecologic malignancies. SCCC is microscopically indistinguishable from the lung. Neuroendocrine differentiation is often manifested by a histological growth pattern, argyrophilia, ultrastructural demonstration of secretory granules, and expression of neuroendocrine markers. In general, SCCC have an aggressive clinical course with a propensity for extensive local invasion and distant metastases. Therapy has included surgery, radiation and chemotherapy similar to those regimens use for small cell carcinoma of the lung. However, multimodality therapy is appropriate in most patients thought to be candidates for aggressive, potentially curative treatment.