## Histological Types of Cervical Cancer **Key Point:** Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) accounts for approximately 80–85% of all cervical cancers globally, making it the most common histological type. ### Epidemiology and Distribution | Histological Type | Frequency | HPV Association | Prognosis | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Squamous cell carcinoma | 80–85% | HPV 16, 18 (high-risk) | Better (stage-dependent) | | Adenocarcinoma | 10–15% | HPV 16, 18 | Worse (earlier presentation, advanced stage) | | Small cell carcinoma | 2–3% | HPV association variable | Poor (neuroendocrine, aggressive) | | Melanoma | <1% | No HPV association | Very poor | **High-Yield:** In India, SCC remains the predominant type due to high prevalence of HPV 16/18 infection and delayed screening/treatment. Adenocarcinoma is rising in incidence in developed nations, partly because cytology-based screening (Pap smear) is less sensitive for glandular lesions. ### Pathogenesis 1. HPV infection (most commonly types 16 and 18) → persistent infection 2. Integration of viral DNA into host genome 3. Inactivation of p53 and Rb tumour suppressors 4. Malignant transformation of squamous epithelium **Clinical Pearl:** Adenocarcinoma of the cervix often presents at a more advanced stage because it arises from the endocervical glands and is not easily detected on routine Pap smear, leading to worse outcomes despite similar HPV associations. **Mnemonic:** **SCC-80** — Squamous Cell Carcinoma accounts for ~80% of cervical cancers.
Sign up free to access AI-powered MCQ practice with detailed explanations and adaptive learning.