The cells of the cervix sometimes undergo genetic mutation, often as a result of HPV infection. When this happens, the cells can begin to grow uncontrollably, leading to cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is usually screened for with a pap smear, and any abnormalities can be examined more closely via a biopsy. As with any cancer, catching it early is key to curing it.
Hysterectomy
If the cancer is detected in the early stages (when it is still only in the cervix), then a hysterectomy will usually be able to cure the cancer. A hysterectomy involves taking out the whole uterus as well as some of the vagina.
Less invasive surgeries
For women who still wish to be fertile, a cone biopsy or loop electrical excision procedure may be effective. These procedures attempt to identify the exact area of the cancer and only take out the affected tissue.
Trachelectomy
Sometimes a cone biopsy is not able to remove all of the cancerous tissue. In these cases, the cancer can still be cured surgically via a trachelectomy, which cuts out more of the tissue but still attempts to avoid damaging the ovaries and uterus.
Tumors not confined to the cervix
In the event that the tumor has spread beyond the cervix, a hysterectomy is called for, as well as lymph node removal. Radiation therapy will also be used to try and remove and cancerous tissue not removed by the surgery.
More advanced tumors
More advanced tumors are harder to cure and will require a hysterectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation. While these tumors are difficult to totally "cure," there is a good chance of being able to put them into remission.
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