Abstract
Cervical cancer is still the fourth most common malignancy in women worldwide and
has a high mortality rate. The prognosis as well as the therapy depends largely on
the extent of the tumor at the time of initial diagnosis. This shows the importance
of correct staging of cervical cancer. In order to promote a globally uniform approach,
staging of cervical cancer in the past was based on widespread examinations such as
exam under anesthesia, histology from cervical conization or biopsy, systematic lymphadenectomy,
cystoscopy, proctoscopy, i. v.-pyelogram and chest X-ray. However, as the primary
tumor stage was often underestimated, the 2018 revised FIGO classification now permits
cross-sectional imaging techniques and pathological findings to be incorporated into
disease staging or an already existing stage to be adapted based on radiological findings.
Thanks to its excellent soft tissue contrast, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is
the method of choice for local-regional staging of cervical cancer, evaluating the
response to treatment, detecting tumor recurrence and for follow-up examinations.
It is important that radiologists interpreting pelvic MRI in case of suspected cervical
cancer are familiar with the current FIGO staging system. This is the only way to
determine the tumor stage as precisely as possible and thus lay the foundation for
the success of therapy for patients. The aim of this review is to present the changes
of the revised FIGO classification as well as to show the importance of MRI as the
method of choice for local-regional tumor staging as a complement to clinical examination.
Key Points:
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Cervical cancer is still the world’s fourth most common female cancer and has a high
mortality rate.
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The FIGO classification for staging cervical cancer in the past was based on clinical
and widespread examinations.
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The primary tumor stage has often been underestimated with the FIGO staging system
since 2018.
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Since 2018, cross-sectional imaging techniques have been incorporated into disease
staging.
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MRI is the method of choice for local-regional tumor staging, evaluation of the response
to treatment, detection of tumor recurrence and possible complications.
Citation Format
Key words
MRI - staging system - carcinoma of the cervix uteri - revised FIGO classification
