Management of the late effects of treatments for gynecological cancer.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

As the number of gynecologic cancer survivors grows, there is an increased awareness and need for effective therapy for late side-effects caused by cancer treatments. Several treatment modalities are used to treat gynecologic malignancies, including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Each modality can be responsible for causing late-term side-effects.

RECENT FINDINGS

There has been an increased awareness of the late detrimental side-effects of cancer treatment, mostly by the use of patient-generated surveys. Effective ways to treat and ameliorate the late side-effects have lagged behind the ability to describe and categorize these effects on patient's quality of life.

SUMMARY

This review will highlight the recent studies to help the clinician caring for gynecologic cancer survivors in recognizing and treating the late effects of cancer therapy.