CANCER DURING PREGNANCY AND POSSIBLE TREATMENT OPTIONS - LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Cancers during pregnancy are a relatively rare phenomenon, but the risk of developing them increases with a woman's age. As more women choose to become pregnant at an older age, the incidence of cases may rise in the future. This article discusses the diagnosis and treatment of the most common cancers in pregnant women: breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, thyroid cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, lymphomas, and melanoma. The aim of this work is to present optimal methods for the treatment and diagnosis of cancers during pregnancy, as the approach for pregnant patients is limited in options. Methods: We analyzed scientific papers on the safety of diagnostics and treatment of breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, thyroid cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, lymphomas, and melanoma. We used PubMed, Google Scholar, and specialized literature to search for information. Conclusions: Due to the limited options for treatment and diagnosis in pregnant women, each case of illness should be considered individually, with an assessment of potential risks and benefits for both the mother and the child. Increased oncological vigilance should be maintained in pregnant women since some pregnancy symptoms often overlap with the initial symptoms of cancer.