What is Adenosquamous Carcinoma of the Vagina?
Adenosquamous carcinoma of the vagina is an extremely rare type of cancer that contains two types of cells: glandular (adenocarcinoma) and squamous cells. It combines features of the two most common types of vaginal cancer, squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. The disease is usually aggressive, often presenting at an advanced stage. Due to its rarity, there is limited knowledge about its exact aetiology, ideal treatment methods, and long-term prognosis.Disease Aetiology (Causes)
The exact cause of adenosquamous carcinoma of the vagina is unknown. Like most cancers, it likely occurs when there’s a mutation in the DNA of cells, causing them to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way, forming a tumour. Risk factors may be similar to those of squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma of the vagina, which includes age, smoking, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and in-utero exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES).Diagnosis
Adenosquamous carcinoma is often diagnosed through:- Detailed medical history and physical examination
- Biopsy of suspicious tissues
- Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to determine the size and location of the tumour and to check if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body