Metastatic Cervical Cancer in Older Patients

K. C. Giede, MD, FRCP, Clinical Fellow in Gynecologic Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON; Associate Professor of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK.
A. M. Oza, MD, FRCP, Co-Director, Drug Development Program; Co-Chair, NCIC Clinical Trials Group, Princess Margaret Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.

The purpose of this article is to review the incidence, prognosis, and management of metastatic cervical cancer in older patients. A literature review was conducted using the key words cervical cancer, elderly, and metastatic disease. There were no studies found specific to metastatic cervical cancer in older patients. The incidence of cervical cancer over the age of 65 remained significant with a greater proportion of older patients presenting with metastatic disease. We found good phase III data on the use of chemotherapy for metastatic cervical cancer. We reviewed data supporting the safe use of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in older patients.
We conclude that older patients are more likely to present with metastatic cervical cancer then their younger counterparts. Standard therapies should not be withheld on the basis of age, though management should focus on palliation.

Key words: cervical cancer, older patients, metastatic.