What is Vaginal cancer?
Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the lining of the vagina. This type of cancer is most commonly found in women over 60. However, it can occur in women of any age. The exact cause of vaginal cancer is unknown, but certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of its development.
Risk Factors
- Increasing age
- HPV infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection that can cause cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancer.
- Smoking or other tobacco use
- History of cervical or vulvar cancer
- History of radiation therapy to the pelvic area for other cancers
Symptoms
The symptoms associated with vaginal cancer can vary for each woman, and may not be the same for all. The most common symptoms associated with vaginal cancer include:
- Vaginal bleeding: Vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause, is one of the most common symptoms of vaginal cancer.
- Vaginal discharge: Vaginal discharge that is abnormal in color, consistency, or smell may be a symptom of vaginal cancer.
- Pain during intercourse
- Vaginal itching or burning
- Vaginal lump or mass
- Constipation
Diagnosis
If a woman has any of the symptoms experienced above, she may seek evaluation by her healthcare provider. A variety of things can be done to evaluate these symptoms.
A pelvic exam is usually the first step in diagnosing vaginal cancer. The healthcare provider will look for any abnormalities in the vaginal area.
A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the abnormal area and examined under a microscope. This can be done for any suspicious areas seen by the healthcare provider. This ultimately confirms a cancer diagnosis.
Imaging tests such as CT, MRI, or PET scans may be done to better look at cancer and determine how far it has spread.
Treatment
Treatment options for vaginal cancer include:
- Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for vaginal cancer. The type of surgery will depend on the stage of cancer and may include removal of the cancerous tissue, hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), or removal of lymph nodes.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It may be given alone or in combination with surgery.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be given alone or in combination with radiation therapy.
The treatment plan will vary depending on the stage and location of cancer. Early detection and prompt treatment can greatly improve the chances of a successful outcome.