March 02, 2026

E36 - ER-Negative Endometrial Cancer Diagnosis and Implications

19 minutes

E36 | 20 min | Latest | Publication Link

Podcast based on: Fan, R.; Wei, X.; Lea, J.; Zhu, H.; Zheng, W. ER-Negative Endometrial Cancers: An Evolving Diagnostic Category with Major Clinical Implications. Cancers 2026, 18, 773. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18050773

Type: Review | Publication date: 27 February 2026

Summary: Estrogen receptor–negative (ER-negative) endometrial carcinomas represent a biologically aggressive and heterogeneous subset of endometrial cancers. Although ER testing has long been used in endometrial carcinoma, it has historically been applied mainly for therapeutic decision-making rather than as a diagnostic tool. Loss of ER expression is associated with poor prognosis but, by itself, is insufficient for accurate tumor classification. In this commentary, we review the evolving diagnostic significance of ER negativity using an integrated framework that incorporates tumor morphology, immunophenotypic features, and molecular heterogeneity. We highlight several high-grade ER-negative tumor types—including gastrointestinal-type adenocarcinoma, pilomatrix-like carcinoma, mesonephric-like adenocarcinoma, clear cell carcinoma, and other high-grade ER-negative carcinomas—that show distinct clinicopathologic characteristics. We propose that ER negativity should be regarded as a diagnostic signal that prompts careful subclassification, with important implications for accurate diagnosis and clinical management.

Keywords: estrogen receptor–negative (ER-negative) endometrial carcinomas; endometrial gastrointestinal-type adenocarcinoma; pilomatrix-like high-grade endometrial carcinoma; PiMHEC; mesonephric-like adenocarcinoma

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This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.

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