The role of biomarkers in endometrial cancer and hyperplasia: a literature review

Introduction: Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecological cancer and its incidence is rising due to increasing obesity rates. We are also seeing an increasing trend of young women diagnosed with either endometrial cancer or its precancerous state, endometrial hyperplasia. Diagnosis is dependent on invasive testing and there is no screening tool available for either general or high-risk population groups.Whilst vast amounts of research have been undertaken in higher-profile cancers such as ovarian and cervical, endometrial cancer is comparatively less investigated.Aim: In this literature review, we summarise the existing literature in understanding the role of tumour biomarkers for endometrial cancer and its preceding condition of endometrial hyperplasia.Method: NICE Healthcare Databases Search tool was used to search Embase, Medline and PubMed databases for relevant articles.Conclusion: There is currently no routinely used biomarker in endometrial cancer for diagnostic or prognostic purposes. Given the establishment of new genomic classifications of endometrial cancers, the use of biomarkers to drive therapeutic approaches will be the cornerstone for individualised cancer care in the coming decades.