What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Vagina?
Squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina or Vaginal squamous cell carcinoma is an invasive cancer of the squamous cells that line the walls of the vagina. Squamous cells are a type of body cells that are thin and flat, present on the skin and lining the hollow organs of the body, such as the airway and vagina. Squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina spreads slowly, mostly remaining confined to the vagina, but can invade the deep muscle layer of the vagina. In very rare cases, it spreads to the lungs, liver, and bones.
What is the Vagina?
The vagina is part of the female reproductive system and is shaped like a hollow tube that is made of muscles and connects the external genitals to the uterus. It is also called the birth canal.
Disease Epidemiology
It makes approximately 85% of vaginal cancers. It mainly affects women in the menopausal age.
Disease Etiology
The reason is unknown. However, old age with current or previous human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, 1st sexual intercourse at a very younger age, smoking, and consumption of diethylstilbestrol (DES) are risk factors.
Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Usually, vaginal squamous cell carcinoma does not cause any signs or symptoms, especially in the initial stages.
- It usually on routine pelvic examination or pap smear test
Common and early signs and symptoms of vaginal cancer are
- Lower abdominal pain
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting not related to menstrual periods i.e. vaginal bleeding between two menstrual cycles
- Pain while sexual intercourse
- Pain at the pelvic area
- Pain while passing urine
- constipation
Diagnosis
The diagnosis can be made by a careful history taking, complete physical and pelvic examination. Below are the tests and procedures used to make the diagnosis. These are
- Pap smear test
- Colposcopy ( an instrument through which a physician can visualize the vagina, cervix, and uterus)
- Cystoscopy
- Tumour biopsy
- Radiological techniques like CT scan, MRI, USG, and X-ray also recommended locating the size and site of the tumour.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the size, site, stage, and extent of the tumour
- The main treatment options are widespread local surgical removal of the tumour, vaginectomy (surgical removal of the entire part of the vagina along with some healthy tissue), chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
What Support can we Give for Squamous Cell Carcinoma (Vagina)?
Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Vagina is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Vagina, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
