Abstract

Glassy cell carcinoma of the cervix, also glassy cell carcinoma, is a rare aggressive malignant tumour of the uterine cervix. The tumour gets its name from its microscopic appearance; its cytoplasm has a glass-like appearance.

Signs and symptoms

The signs and symptoms are similar to other cervical cancers and may include post-coital bleeding and/or pain during intercourse (dyspareunia). Early lesions may be completely asymptomatic.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is based on tissue examination, e.g. biopsy.

Under the microscope, glassy cell carcinoma tumours are composed of cells with a glass-like cytoplasm, typically associated with an inflammatory infiltrate abundant in eosinophils and very mitotically active. PAS staining distinctively extenuates the plasma membrane.

Treatment

The treatment is dependent on the stage. Advanced tumours are treated with surgery (radical hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-opherectomy), radiation therapy and chemotherapy.