Small-celI carcinoma of the endometrium: A case report and a review of the literature

Objective: To explore the etiology, clinical manifestations, pathological features, diagnosis and treatment of small-cell carcinoma of the endometrium.Methods: This case report introduces a case of small-cell carcinoma of the endometrium and reviews the related literatures.Results: This patient presented with vaginal bleeding and was diagnosed of stage Ⅱ endometrial adenocarcinoma before surgery. Laparoscopic modified radical hysterectomy and double accessory and pelvic lymph node dissection was performed. Pathological examination revealed small-cell carcinoma of the endometrium complicated with stage Ⅱ endometrial adenocarcinoma. There was immunohistochemical evidence of synaptophysin expression. Chemotherapy with EP regimen (etoposide plus carboplatin) and radiotherapy were administered after surgery.Conclusion: Primary small-cell carcinoma of the endometrium is an extremely rare and aggressive disease with a poor clinical outcome. Surgery combined with chemotherapy and radiotherapy may contribute to an improved prognosis. DOI:10.3781/j.issn.1000-7431.2015.44.554