Concepts of cancer prevention and early cancer detection
In the field of gynecology the cancer prevention plays a big role. Especially the Pap smear is able to reduce the number of women suffering from cervical cancer world wide.
All health insurance companies in Germany cover the annual gynecological exam for early detection of cancer for women from the age of 20 without an upper age limit. Since January 1, 2020, however, there has been an age-dependent gradation of the cervical cancer screening.
In the last years extended checkups were invented. Among those are additional examinations that allow a higher reliability. The basic health care in Germany is sufficient, but we can do more.
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In the dysplasia consultation, we clarify abnormal findings of the external and internal genitalia. Dysplasia refers to cell changes in the sense of precancerous lesions on the cervix, vagina and labia.
In the case of conspicuous Pap smears in cancer screening, a microscopic clarification is performed with histological confirmation of the findings if necessary, and the determination of further treatment. Dr. König is trained for dysplasia consultations, has many years of experience in this field, is certified with the colposcopy diploma of the AGCPC, has the corresponding billing permits and works with a photo-video colposcope of the latest generation from Leisegang.
As part of the cancer screening guidelines of the statutory health insurance funds, the following examinations are performed at least once a year:
FROM THE AGE OF 20 YEARS ON …
… the statutory health insurance covers the costs of examinations of the cervix and the Pap smear test. Also a gynecological palpation of the inner organs is included.
FROM THE AGE OF 30 YEARS ON …
… additional palpation of the breast and lymph nodes in the armpits and neck are recommended.
FROM THE AGE OF 35 YEARS
From the age of 35, a combined examination consisting of a Pap smear test and a HPV test is offered. This combined test is offered every three years.
FROM THE AGE OF 50 YEARS ON
For the prevention of coloncarcinoma we offer a yearly stool check for occult blood and plan a colonoscopy latest with the age of 55.
Through a vaginal ultrasound a detailed examination of the uterus and the ovaries is possible. Even small changes can be detected. That is why we recommend this extra examination. It should take place once a year.
Cancer of the uterus can arise in the endometrium. The sonography can show changes, especially an endometrial hyperplasia and allows us to distinguish between benign and suspicious changes. If necessary a small operation can solve the problem.
In the ovaries of fertile women smaller and larger cysts are frequently found. The vaginal sonography allows us to distinguish between the various kinds of cysts. We are able to identify a malignant cyst.
Another entity we can find with the vaginal sonography is a uterine fibroid. Every third women at the age of 30 and older has fibroids; they can prevent pregnancy and might cause various symptoms. We recommend a vaginal sonography before you plan to become pregnant.
In addition to the breast palpation I recommend an ultrasound examination for women above 35 years old. Depending on the results that examination should take place every 6 to 24 months. It is a pain-free method without any side effects. Furthermore, it allows us to detect tumors that cannot be found through palpation. As long as you are not in the menopause, the ultrasound examination has a couple of advantages compared to the mammography. You may find more information if you read here.
In order to detect cervical cancer a further test, the HPV test, can be conducted. The virus HPV exists in many variations; some types belong to the “high-risk” group and are in most cases responsible for cervical cancer. In addition to that, smoking and recurrent inflammation increase the chances of developing cervical cancer.
For women over 35 years of age, the HPV test is covered by the health insurance companies. The HPV test can also be used to clarify a conspicuous Pap smear.
A negative result on that test gives you a high assurance that you won’t have cervical cancer in the upcoming years. If the test results are conspicuous, the severity of the changes can be determined.
An HPV-vaccination has been invented in recent years that women and girls should receive.
Check up for Coloncarcinoma
Coloncarcinoma is the second most common carcinoma in women. We recommend the stool test for occult blood from the age of 40 years. It is a simple and hygienic test and can also be useful in addition to or if you do not like to do a colonoscopy.
Bladder Check
For women older the 45 years it can be useful to do the bladder check. The risk for bladder carcinoma is increased through smoking or contact to chemicals especially when you color your hair.
Chlamydia Test
Chlamydia are sexually transmitted bacteria. They can cause severe infections of the inner Organs and can cause infertility through adhesions and gluing of the fallopian tubes. We can check it with morning urine or with smear tests. There is a regular screening for women younger than 25 years old.
