Cervical Cancer

Types

There are two main types. The most common type of cervical cancer is called squamous cell carcinoma This develops from the flat cells which cover the outer surface of the cervix at the top of the vagina. They begin in the ectocervix, the part of the cervix next to the vagina. About 85% of cervical cancers are squamous cell cancers and this is unique because there is a well established progression through premalignant changes before a cancer develops.

The other type is called adenocarcinoma and is less common. This develops mucus-producing glandular cells of the endocervix, the part of the cervix next to the body.

About 3% to 5% of cervical cancers have characteristics of both squamous and adenocarcinomas and are called adenosquamous carcinomas.

There are a few other very rare types like small cell and neuroendocrine carcinoma. READ MORE »