Vaginal cancer can be one of two types, either squamous cell carcinoma which originates in the flat cells which line the vagina, or adenocarcinoma which arises from the glandular cells which are within the lining of the vagina. Vaginal cancer is rare, and according to the American Cancer Society approximately 2160 newly diagnosed cases are anticipated in 2009 within the US. More black and hispanic women will develop vaginal cancer than any other race or ethnicity. This is similar to cervical cancer with respect to the higher incidence in these two population groups. The median age at diagnosis is 47 years of age. In 2009 it is anticipated that 770 women will die within the US from this type of cancer.
Symptoms
HPV can be insidious because many times there are no symptoms. Just as with other areas of the body such as the cervix, the virus can produce cell changes called dysplasia which if untreated can develop into cancer. Symptoms which are associated with vaginal cancer include the following: pain during intercourse, a lump or growth in the vagina (this can also be associated with genital warts caused by low risk HPV), pelvic pain, and bleeding and/or discharge unrelated to the menstrual cycle.
Risk Factors for Developing Vaginal Cancer
Risk factors include a history of HPV, history of cervical dysplasia or cervical cancer, exposure to DES (diethylstilbestrol) in utero, This drug was used in the 1950's to prevent miscarriage. Also being over age 60 increases the risk for vaginal cancer.
Diagnosing Vaginal Cancer
Vaginal cancer can be diagnosed in several ways. One is the Pap smear. Samples of vaginal cells are obtained utilizing a swab very similar to the female Pap test of the cervix. In the same way as the female Pap these cells can be looked at microscopically for signs of dysplasia (abnormal cell changes) and cancer itself. During a Pap test, visible lesions may be noted within the vagina. Another procedure used for diagnosis is the colposcopy. This involves utilizing a vinegar wash followed by viewing the area with a high resolution microscope. Abnormal cells will appear white during a colposcopy and a biopsy can be taken to determine if dysplasia or cancer cells are present.
Treatment for Vaginal Cancer
Various surgical methods can be utilized to treat vaginal cancer. Laser surgery is often used for surface lesions. Also, a wide local excision can be performed removing additional tissue around the lesion in an attempt to ensure clear margins (surrounding tissue negative for cancer). Three other surgical procedures include a hysterectomy, a vaginectomy removing part or all of the vagina and also a pelvic exenteration. Pelvic exenteration involves removal of the cervix, vagina, ovaries, colon, rectum and bladder.Depending upon where the cancer is located either pelvic lymph nodes (if cancer is in the upper portion of the vagina) or groin lymph nodes (if cancer is within the lower segment of the vagina) will be removed. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy may also be used following surgery. The type of treatment will depend upon the staging (how far the cancer has progressed) of the cancer. Topical chemotherapy (Efudex) may also be used.
Resources
Any Mother's Daughter, Copyright 2009. All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer: This site is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. Information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. This is not a substitute for professional care. If you suspect you may have a health problem consult your healthcare provider. Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited.
