STEP 3: Diagnosis, staging and treatment planning
Diagnosis: After a medical history and examination, consider the following sequence of investigations:
- gynaecological examination
- colposcopic assessment
- cervical biopsy for confirmation of diagnosis
- cone biopsy (conisation)/type 3 excision
- complete blood count
- liver and renal function tests
- pelvic ultrasound.
For obvious abnormalities, a colposcopy should be undertaken within two weeks of referral. Investigations should be completed within two weeks of specialist review.
Staging: Staging for cervical cancer is clinical but aided by chest x-ray, CT/MRI/PET as appropriate.
Treatment planning: Newly diagnosed women should be discussed in a multidisciplinary team meeting.
Issues regarding fertility, early menopause and changes to sexual function should be addressed.
Research and clinical trials: Consider enrolment where available and appropriate.
Communication
The lead clinician’s (1) responsibilities include:
- discuss a timeframe for diagnosis and treatment with the woman/carer
- explain the role of the multidisciplinary team
- provide appropriate information or refer to support services as required.
1: Lead clinician – the clinician who is responsible for managing patient care.
The lead clinician may change over time depending on the stage of the care pathway and where care is being provided.
