Abstract
Uterine papillary serous carcinoma (UPSC) is a biologically aggressive subtype of endometrial cancer. Although much less common than its endometrioid carcinoma counterpart, UPSC accounts for a disproportionate number of endometrial cancer-related recurrences and subsequent deaths. Women most often present with postmenopausal vaginal bleeding. In women diagnosed with metastatic disease, ascites, omental implants or a pelvic mass may be present. Local and distant recurrences occur frequently, with extrapelvic relapses being observed most commonly. Although few prospective trials exist, several retrospective series have demonstrated that optimal cytoreduction and adjuvant platinum/taxane-based chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy appears to improve survival. In addition, another approach to the management of UPSC may lie in targeted therapy. This article reviews the recent literature concerning the epidemiology, molecular pathogenesis and management of UPSC.