INTRODUCTION: Follow-up is essential with conservatively managed endometrial cancer (EC) and endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia (EIN) due to high risk of recurrence. There are little published data regarding follow-up in this population. The purpose of this study was to assess possible factors associated with loss to follow-up. METHODS: This was an IRB-approved retrospective chart review (protocol HSC20220315EX). Patients aged 18–45 with a history of EIN or early EC who elected fertility-sparing management and achieved pathologic response were included. Demographic and clinical data were collected and compared across patients who followed up and did not follow up. RESULTS: Eighty-six patients met inclusion criteria, of which 40 were lost to follow-up. 52% of patients with EIN and 25% of patients with EC were lost to follow-up ( P =.12). 43% of patients with private insurance were lost to follow-up, compared to 63% with Medicaid ( P =.45) and 67% without insurance ( P =.40). There was no difference in follow-up based on age ( P =.24), race ( P =.47), body mass index ( P =.90), or parity ( P >.99), nor was there a difference based on fertility consultation ( P =.83), assisted reproductive technology utilization ( P >.99), or achievement of pregnancy ( P >.99). CONCLUSION: Although no statistical differences were found, trends towards difference in follow-up based on diagnosis and insurance warrant further investigation. Barriers to care also may be more individual than systemic in nature. A future survey study of patients lost to follow-up may provide additional insight.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Hartup et al. (2024) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: