Corpus Uteri

Abstract

Primary Site. The upper two-thirds of the uterus above the level of the internal cervical os is referred to as the uterine corpus (Figure 36.1). The oviducts (fallopian tubes) and the round ligaments enter the uterus at the upper and outer corners (cornu) of the pear-shaped organ. The portion of the uterus that is above a line connecting the tubo-uterine orifices is referred to as the uterine fundus. The lower third of the uterus is called the cervix and lower uterine segment. Tumor involvement of the cervical stroma is prognostically important and affects staging (T2). The new staging system no longer distinguishes endocervical mucosal/glandular involvement (formerly stage IIA). The location of the tumor must be carefully evaluated and recorded by the pathologist. The depth of tumor invasion into the myometrium is also of prognostic significance and should be included in the pathology report. Involvement of the ovaries by direct extension or metastases, or penetration of tumor to the uterine serosa is important to identify and classify the tumor as T3a.