Perineural invasion in cervical cancer
Xiayi Li, Xiaojing Yang, Shuchen Lin, Hui Cong, Yawen Liu, Yudong Wang, Jie Fu
Abstract
Perineural invasion (PNI), the neoplastic infiltration of peripheral nerves, is recognized as the fourth mode of tumor metastasis and invasion. PNI is defined as a critical pathological feature observed across various cancers and is associated with poor prognosis. Recent studies have demonstrated that PNI also occurs in cervical cancer. Nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy (NSRH) has been promoted as the preferred approach for radical surgical resection of cervical cancer, as it reduces postoperative complications such as bladder, rectal, and sexual dysfunction. However, the presence of PNI has become a contraindication for NSRH. Despite the increasing volume of studies on PNI, the underlying mechanisms of its pathogenesis remain largely unclear. In this review, we discuss the innervation, characteristics, preoperative prediction and diagnosis of PNI in cervical cancer, along with its underlying mechanism, paving the way for advancements in treatment strategies and improving the prognosis for cervical cancer patients. • Perineural invasion is a critical pathological feature in cervical cancer. • Perineural invasion conflicts with nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy. • The preoperative prediction and diagnosis of perineural invasion remain challenging. • 5.0T MRI may provide intricate anatomical details of the pelvic autonomic nerves.