Cervical adenocarcinoma misdiagnosed as a nabothian cyst during pregnancy: A case report and review of the literatures.

RATIONALE: The incidence of cervical adenocarcinoma is increasing, particularly in women of reproductive age, and presents a unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenge when encountered during pregnancy. Distinguishing malignant cervical lesions from benign entities such as nabothian cysts can be particularly difficult due to overlapping clinical and imaging features, leading to potential delays in diagnosis and management.

PATIENT CONCERNS: A 38-year-old multiparous woman at 7 weeks' gestation was referred to a tertiary hospital for an abnormal Papanicolaou smear showing atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance and positive for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) type 18 infection. She was asymptomatic, with no vaginal bleeding, pelvic discomfort or other suggestive symptoms.

DIAGNOSES: Initial imaging and colposcopic findings suggested a nabothian cyst. However, 4 weeks later, atypical cytological findings and HPV 18 positivity prompted further surveillance. At 26 weeks' gestation, cervical biopsy confirmed moderately differentiated HPV-associated cervical adenocarcinoma. Magnetic resonance imaging staged the disease as International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage IB1.

INTERVENTIONS: After multidisciplinary consultation, the patient underwent classical cesarean section followed by type 3 radical hysterectomy, bilateral salpingectomy, pelvic lymphadenectomy and ovarian transposition at 29 weeks 6 days gestation. Magnesium sulfate and corticosteroids were administered for fetal neuroprotection and lung maturation.

OUTCOMES: Pathology confirmed a 1.5 cm cervical adenocarcinoma without lymphovascular space invasion, parametrial extension or lymph node metastasis. The patient has remained disease-free for 4 years under regular oncological surveillance.

LESSONS: This case highlights the diagnostic complexity of cervical adenocarcinoma in pregnancy, particularly when lesions mimic benign cervical pathology. Persistent atypical cytology and high-risk HPV positivity warrant thorough evaluation, including colposcopic biopsy, despite pregnancy. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for optimal maternal and fetal outcomes.