Clear Cell Adenocarcinoma of the Cervix in a Young Woman without Exposure to Diethylstilbestrol: A Case Report

Abstract

Clear cell carcinoma is believed to be one of the rare neoplasms of cervix uteri and vagina. The etiology and pathogenesis of clear cell carcinoma of the cervix are unclear, with scarce information about the clinical behavior, optimal management, and prognosis of the tumor. The current treatment options are based on the experiences accumulated on squamous cell carcinoma and other types of adenocarcinoma. Prior intrauterine exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) is presumed to be a predisposing factor for clear cell adenocarcinoma in young patients. Metastasis is uncommon, but local recurrence may occur. The cure rate of this disease is 85%-90% in early stages with a small volume of tumors. In this study, we report a rare case of clear cell carcinoma of the cervix in a 21-year-old woman, who had no exposure to DES (in-utero) or synthetic non-steroidal estrogen; therefore, the present research supports the hypothesis that the risk factors, other than DES exposure, play an important role in carcinogenesis.

Keywords

• adenocarcinoma
• clear cell
• diethylstilbestrol
• cervix uteri