Recurrent Mismatch Repair-deficient (dMMR) Endometrial Cancer
Recurrent Mismatch Repair-deficient (dMMR) Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial cancer, also known as uterine cancer, is a cancer that affects the endometrium of the uterus. It affects women of all ages, and is often diagnosed in post-menopausal women. Endometrial cancer is often a highly curable form of cancer, but some types of endometrial cancer are more aggressive. Recurrent Mismatch Repair-deficient (dMMR) endometrial cancer is a type of endometrial cancer that is particularly challenging to treat.
dMMR endometrial cancer is caused by a defect in the body’s DNA repair system known as the mismatch repair (MMR) pathway. This defect prevents the body from properly repairing damaged DNA, allowing mutated cells to accumulate. These accumulated mutations cause changes in the cell’s behavior, causing it to become cancerous. This type of endometrial cancer is particularly aggressive, and often recurs after treatment.
The treatment of dMMR endometrial cancer is more difficult than other forms of endometrial cancer. Traditional chemotherapy and radiation, which are the standards of care for many forms of endometrial cancer, have been shown to be less effective for dMMR cases. Research is ongoing to develop and improve dMMR-specific treatment options.
Some promising new treatments for dMMR endometrial cancer include combination therapies, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies.These treatments are aimed at targeting the underlying genetic changes responsible for the cancer, as well as stimulating the body’s own immune system to fight the cancer. Clinical trials are ongoing to further study these potential treatments.
Some of the key steps women can take to reduce their risk of dMMR endometrial cancer include:
- Staying active and eating a healthy, well-balanced diet
- Getting regular screenings for endometrial cancer
- Talking to your doctor about your family history of cancer
- Being aware of any changes in your body
If you have been diagnosed with dMMR endometrial cancer, it is important to work with your doctor to discuss the best options for your treatment. While dMMR endometrial cancer can be a difficult type of cancer to treat, there are promising new treatments that may improve your outcome.
