Endometrial Cancer: An Update on Prognostic Pathologic Features and Clinically Relevant Biomarkers

Surg Pathol Clin. 2022 Jun;15(2):277-299. doi: 10.1016/j.path.2022.02.006.

Abstract

The prognosis of endometrial cancers has historically been determined by the evaluation of histologic typing, grading, and staging. Recently, molecular classification, pioneered by the 4 prognostic categories from The Cancer Genome Atlas Research Network, has been shown to independently predict the outcome, correlate with biomarker expression, and predict response to adjuvant chemotherapy. In modern-day pathology practice, it has become necessary to integrate the time-honored prognostic pathologic features with molecular classification to optimize patient management. In this review, the significance of the molecular classification of endometrioid carcinomas, the application of practical diagnostic surrogate algorithms, and interpretation of test results will be addressed. Histologic features and theragnostic biomarkers will also be discussed in relation to the molecular subtypes of endometrial cancers.

Keywords: Biomarkers; Endometrial carcinoma; Molecular classification.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / genetics
  • Carcinoma, Endometrioid* / diagnosis
  • Carcinoma, Endometrioid* / genetics
  • Carcinoma, Endometrioid* / pathology
  • Chemotherapy, Adjuvant
  • Endometrial Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Endometrial Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Endometrial Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Prognosis

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor