Cervical cancer is often treated with a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, depending on the stage. Our medical oncologists coordinate the systemic and combined treatment within that plan.
How we approach it
Early cervical cancers may be treated with surgery; more advanced disease often combines radiation and chemotherapy
Modern treatment increasingly includes immunotherapy for advanced or recurrent disease
We work alongside gynecologic and radiation specialists so the plan moves as one
What the workup looks like
An abnormal Pap or HPV result leads to colposcopy and a biopsy to confirm exactly what's there.
A pelvic exam, MRI, and sometimes a PET/CT show whether the cancer is confined to the cervix or has spread.
Early disease is often treated surgically; more advanced disease usually calls for chemotherapy and radiation together.
Radiation therapy for cervical cancer
Radiation therapy is one of the tools we may use in treating cervical cancer — sometimes combined with chemotherapy as a primary treatment. When it’s part of your plan, it’s delivered with the advanced TrueBeam® system and planned by our board-certified radiation oncologist, Dr. Dan Ishihara, working hand-in-hand with your medical oncologist so radiation, drug therapy, and surgery come together as one plan rather than three.
Common questions
How is cervical cancer usually found?
Is chemotherapy always needed?
Does HPV cause cervical cancer?
Can immunotherapy help?
This page is general information, not medical advice for your specific situation. Every diagnosis — and every patient — is different. Bring your questions to your care team.