Vaginal Cancer

Vaginal cancer is relatively rare; it accounts for 1% of gynecologic malignancies in the USA. The average age at diagnosis is 60 to 65 years. Most (95%) vaginal cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, although adenocarcinoma and melanoma may occur.

An early symptom is vaginal bleeding or discharge. Usually, nodules or ulcers develop on the vaginal mucosa; biopsy is necessary for definitive diagnosis.

Prognosis depends on the size and location of the tumor. Five-year survival rates vary from 25 to 48%. Primary treatment usually consists of radiation therapy, although surgery or chemotherapy can be used in select cases. For example, tumors in the upper third of the vagina near the cervix may be surgically resectable.