Vaginal Cancer
Understanding Vaginal Cancer
Vaginal cancer accounts for only 1-2% of all gynecological cancers. It is generally categorized into primary vaginal cancer (which starts in the vagina itself) and metastatic or secondary vaginal cancer (which has spread to the vagina from another organ like the cervix, uterus, or ovaries).
Common Types
Vaginal cancer is classified by the type of cell where the disease originates. Squamous cell carcinoma, Accounts for roughly 9 out of 10 cases. It originates in the flat, thin cells lining the vaginal walls and tends to develop slowly.
Adenocarcinoma
Starts in the glandular (mucus-producing) cells. A rare type, clear cell adenocarcinoma, is linked to in utero exposure to a medication called diethylstilbestrol (DES).
Melanoma
An extremely rare and aggressive cancer forming in the pigmentproducing cells.
Sarcoma
A very rare form that begins within the muscles or connective tissues of the vaginal wall.
Diagnosis and Screening
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Routine Pelvic Exams
Physical inspections of the vagina and surrounding areas.
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Cervical Screening
HPV and Pap tests (which can sometimes identify abnormal cells in the vagina).
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Colposcopy
Examining the vaginal walls with a magnifying instrument.
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Biopsy
If abnormalities are found, a small tissue sample is taken and analysed