Angiogenesis in the uterine cervix

Our objective was to present current data pertaining to angiogenesis of the uterine cervix. We conducted a computerized search to identify relevant st udies published in the English language literature. MEDLINE, Current Conten ts and Index Medicus were searched utilizing the terms: angiogenesis, uteri ne cervix, intraepithelial neoplasia, squamous cell carcinoma, and adenocar cinoma, from 1966 through June 1999. In contrast to the cyclic phases of th e menstrual cycle of the ovary and endometrium in which angiogenesis plays a significant physiologic role, angiogenesis in the uterine cervix is invol ved primarily in neoplastic processes. These include intraepithelial diseas e, human papilloma-related disease, and microinvasive and invasive squamous cell and adenocarcinoma of the cervix. In invasive squamous cell and adeno carcinoma of the uterine cervix, angiogenesis appears to be a prognostic in dicator for overall survival and disease-free survival. Initial trial studi es with anti-angiogenic (angio-inhibitor) therapy such as TNP-470 have been reported and concurrent antitumor activity observed in a limited number of patients with advanced (inoperable or metastatic) disease.