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Types of cancer of the cervix

There are two main types of cervical cancer:

Squamous cell carcinoma – This is the most common type of cervical cancer. It develops from the flat cells which cover the outer surface of the cervix at the top of the vagina.
Adenocarcinoma – This type develops from the glandular cells which line the cervical canal (endocervix). As adenocarcinoma starts in the cervical canal it can be more difficult to detect with cervical screening tests.

There are other, less common types of cancer of the cervix known as adenosquamous carcinoma , clear-cell and small-cell carcinomas . Our cancer support specialists can give you more information about these types of cervical cancer.

Tests will show which type of cervical cancer you have. They will give other important information such as the stage of the cancer. This information will help your doctor know which is the best type of treatment for you.

Content last reviewed: 1 January 2010

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Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 89 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7UQ.