Frequently Asked Questions   /   Types of Cancer   /   Gynecologic Cancers   /   Endometrial and Uterine Cancer

Atypical Hyperplasia

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Last Modified: September 8, 2006

Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts,"

I had a partial laparoscopic hysterectomy in November 2006 (only my uterus was removed). After the surgery was done, it was discovered that I had complex atypical hyperplasia. I have since heard that a total abdominal hysterectomy is usually preferred in this case to ensure that none of the endometrial cells are left on other organs. My understanding is that complex atypical hyperplasia is actually precancerous and only 30% actually becomes cancerous if untreated. Is there risk of any of these cells remaining and developing into other forms of cancer on the remaining organs?

Christina S. Chu, MD, Assistant Professor of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania Health System, responds:

While one of the typical treatments for complex hyperplasia is removal of the ovaries as well as the uterus, depending on your age, retaining your ovaries may be an appropriate option. If your uterus was removed and there was no evidence of cancer, there is no significant risk for having abnormal endometrial cells on your ovaries that might later develop into cancer.