Treatment of Vaginal Tumors
Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that develops in the vaginal canal, the muscular tube connecting the uterus to the external genitalia. It typically originates in the cells lining the vaginal surface, sometimes referred to as the birth canal. While various cancers from other parts of the body can spread to the vagina, primary vaginal cancer (cancer that starts in the vagina) is rare.
Symptoms of Vaginal Tumors
- Unusual vaginal bleeding (e.g., after intercourse or post-menopause).
- Watery vaginal discharge.
- A lump or mass in the vagina.
- Painful urination.
- Frequent urination.
- Constipation.
- Pelvic pain.
Causes of Vaginal Tumors
Cancer begins when healthy cells undergo genetic mutations, turning into abnormal cells. Normal cells grow and multiply at a controlled rate and die at a predetermined time. In contrast, cancerous cells grow uncontrollably and do not die, leading to tumor formation. These cancerous cells can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body (metastasis).
Risk Factors for Vaginal Tumors
- Age – The risk increases with age.
- Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VAIN) – A condition where vaginal cells become abnormal but are not yet cancerous. In some cases, VAIN can progress to vaginal cancer, often due to Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
- Use of Diethylstilbestrol (DES) – A drug once used to prevent miscarriage, linked to a higher risk of vaginal cancer.
- Other Risk Factors:
- Multiple sexual partners.
- Early sexual activity.
- Smoking.
- HIV infection (weakened immune system).
Treatment for Vaginal Tumors
The choice of treatment depends on the cancer stage, location, and overall health of the patient. Common treatments include:
- Surgery – To remove the tumor or, in advanced cases, the affected vaginal area.
- Radiation Therapy – High-energy beams target and destroy cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy – Drugs used to kill cancer cells, typically for advanced or recurrent cases.
- Immunotherapy – Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
- Targeted Therapy – Designed to attack specific cancer cells while minimizing harm to normal cells.
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