Relationship of lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) with histological grade of tumors and uterine muscle industrate in endometrial cancer

Aim:
Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common cancer of the female genital tract. Its occurrence is a significant problem, especially in developed countries. In the context of this disease, an important clinical prognostic factor is lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI). The role of LVSI in relation to the risk of disease recurrence and the selection of appropriate treatment remains controversial and unclear. The aim of the study was to compare lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) in type 1 and type 2 endometrial cancer (EC).

Material and methods:
The study included 306 Caucasian women diagnosed with confirmed endometrial cancer at the WSZZ in Kielce between 2005 and 2017. The patients were operated on in two facilities: WSZZ in Kielce and ŚCO. The patients underwent total hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy, computed tomography of the abdomen and chest, typical blood tests and endoscopic examinations. Each case was rediagnosed according to the eighth edition of the TNM classification.

Results:
Tumor grade progression was closely correlated with LVSI (P = 0.0338). Similar observations have been reported with progression to the TNM/FIGO stage.

Conclusions:
1. Lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) is a poor prognostic factor for EC. 2. Patients with endometrial cancer and LVSI are more susceptible to disease recurrence and lymph node metastases.