Can endometrial cysts become cancerous?

Endometrial cysts may become cancerous, but not all cases will. The specific situation depends on the cause, course of the disease and the patient's physical condition. It is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible, through regular gynecological examinations and imaging assessments, to identify the risks and take appropriate intervention measures.

1) Possible causes of cancer

Endometrial cysts actually refer to the proliferation or cystic changes of endometrial tissue. This situation may lead to cancer due to the following factors:

-Genetic factors: A family history of endometrial cancer or other tumors may increase the risk.

- Long-term hormone stimulation: Anovulatory menstruation or the use of estrogen replacement therapy without progestin can cause hormone imbalance, stimulate excessive proliferation of the endometrium, and increase the risk of cancer.

- Chronic inflammation or infection: Long-term endometritis increases the risk of abnormal cell division.

-Age factor: Increasing age (especially in postmenopausal women) is also one of the important causes of cancer.

2) Methods to prevent or reduce the risk of cancer

-Drug treatment: Ovulation-stimulating drugs (such as clomiphene) can be used to correct anovulation; progestin drugs (such as dydrogesterone or progesterone) are often used to balance hormone levels and inhibit continued endometrial proliferation.

-Surgical treatment: For confirmed endometrial lesions, especially severe endometrial hyperplasia with atypical hyperplasia, hysteroscopy can be used to remove the lesion tissue. If the condition is more serious or precancerous lesions are considered, a total hysterectomy is required.

-Lifestyle intervention: Avoiding obesity, reducing fat intake, eating more foods rich in fiber and antioxidants, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, nuts, etc., and insisting on regular exercise are effective ways to prevent cancer.

3) How to monitor and seek medical treatment

Regular gynecological examinations and pelvic ultrasound are key, especially for women with risk factors, who should be monitored every 6 months to 1 year, and timely intervention is required if abnormalities are found. At the same time, when the endometrial thickness increases abnormally under ultrasound (>5mm after menopause; significant thickening outside of menstruation in young women), further pathological biopsy should be performed to confirm whether there is a possibility of cancer.

Although endometrial cysts have the risk of cancer, most patients can minimize the risk through professional evaluation, standardized treatment and lifestyle intervention. It is recommended that female friends maintain healthy living habits, pay attention to gynecological examinations, and detect and treat them early to ensure the best health.