Gynaecological Cancers: Biology and Therapeutics

Gynaecological cancers are categorised as 'rare' diseases, although collectively they affect over 16 000 women each year in the UK alone. There is a lack of real understanding of these conditions compared with other malignancies, possibly owing to their relative rarity when viewed as individual diseases, which can influence the desire to invest in research. The 60th RCOG Study Group brought together a range of experts to examine as many biological aspects of gynaecological cancers as possible, including therapies, both surgical and non-surgical. While a great deal of research is still needed, it is clear that progress is occurring: new agents are opening new routes to therapy besides the normal direct approach to cell destruction, while new discoveries about the pathology of some cancers carry implications for research and clinical trials that will ultimately result in better directed therapies. This book presents the findings of the Study Group, covering the current understanding of the biology of gynaecological cancers, the translation of biology to the clinic, the state of the art in imaging and therapy and current clinical trials. Advances in multimodal therapies, imaging and individualised treatments, as well as the role of surgical approaches, are all included, as are consensus views arising from the Study Group. This book is a valuable source of reference for anyone working in the field of gynaecological cancers, providing topical and essential information for practising clinicians, researchers and other interested healthcare professionals.