A type of cancer that affects the reproductive parts of women where cells start to multiply in the vagina or vaginal lining. Predominantly the cancer cells begin their journey elsewhere and gradually spread to the vagina. As per statistical data, in 2022 an estimated 8,870 new cases were identified and 1,630 death casualties accounted for vaginal and related genital cancers in the United States.

This scarce gynecological cancer, if identified in the beginning stages, is easy to cure. With the rapid advancement in medical research, women patients are sure to find satisfaction and a ray of hope with suitable treatments for vaginal cancer.

Types

1. Squamous cell carcinoma

This is the most common type of vaginal cancer. It arises in a thin layer of cells that line the surface of the vagina.

2. Adenocarcinoma

Prominent in the epithelial cells of the vagina and 10 % of women are infected with this vaginal cancer. Fifty years of age or more is the category of women more susceptible to this cancer.

3. Melanoma

This malignant tumor begins with melanocytes, the cells that are responsible for the color of the vagina. Although it is a very rare cancer, when it develops in the cervix, it becomes very aggressive in nature.

4. Sarcoma

Grows in the connective tissues or muscle cells in the walls of the vagina. This type of cancer is also extremely rare.

Vaginal Cancer Causes

Precise causes of vaginal cancer are difficult to ascertain, but several risk factors contribute to the growth, such as:

Age:- Usually observed in women who are 50 years and above.
Smoking:- Consuming tobacco and normally those females who habitually smoke risk their health of acquiring this cancer. DNA composition is affected which can increase the cancer cells.
History:- Women who have had cervical cancer or those with symptoms of precancerous cervical lesions are at high risk of acquiring this cancer.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV):- HPV infection is an early invitation for cervical cancers; this virus is mostly acquired through sexual contact.

Symptoms

Some signs and common symptoms are listed below:

Vaginal bleeding:- An unexplained vaginal bleeding such as bleeding between periods, after menopause, and after intercourse.

Vaginal Discharge:- An extremely high vaginal discharge is observed in women who are infected with cervical cancer that can be full of fluid, blood, or bad-smelling.

In rare cases, cervical cancer develops a lump in the cervix that may be noticed when a pelvic examination is done.
While urinating pain is experienced or the urge to urinate increases frequently.
Women who are in their advanced cervical cancer stage, may notice an ulcer in the rectum that can cause nausea or stool that is black in color.

Diagnosis

Biopsy: A small tissue is detached from the vagina and analyzed in the laboratory to find out the presence of cancer cells.
Pelvic Exam: The vagina, uterus, and adjacent tissues are examined for any growth of cancerous cells.
Pap Smear: A test performed that will help to find out the tumor cells.
Imaging Tests: The use of energy like radiation is made to analyze the inside parts of the body. This helps to diagnose, monitor, and effectively plan the treatment. Tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), endoscopy, and ultrasound are commonly employed.

Treatment Options

Your healthcare professional may suggest any one of the following treatments for the treatment of this cancer:

1. Surgery

Location of the tumor, the stage of the cancer, and its extent play a pivotal role when performing the surgery. The surgery can include pelvic exenteration, lymph node dissection, or excision of the malignant tissue (vaginectomy).

2. Radiation

Strong beams of radiation are used at the target site to get rid of the tumor cells.
When done externally high beams of radiation are directed to the target to kill the cancer cells.
In the internal radiation, special instruments like catheters, which contain radioactive material are put inside the vagina.

3. Chemotherapy

Potent and strong drugs are used here to kill or stop cancer cells from spreading further. It can be used per-surgery to decrease the tumor, post-surgery to kill the cancer cells, or as per the doctor’s advice.