Cancer of the Vagina and External Genital Organs

Cancer of the vagina and external genitalia is a dangerous disease that often occurs in women aged 60 to 70 years and older. The development of this type of cancer is often preceded by precancerous diseases, such as leukoplakia and vulvar kraurosis. Symptoms of external genital cancer may include a firm nodule or ulceration that bleeds easily. The tumor is located in the area of ​​the labia majora or minora, the clitoris, and then can involve the vagina, urethra and perineum.

There is a high risk of metastases to the regional inguinal, femoral and iliac lymph nodes. Metastases can also appear in the lungs and other organs. Clinical symptoms may include itching, burning, serous discharge mixed with blood and pain. To clarify the diagnosis, it is necessary to carry out cytological and histological examination.

The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma of varying degrees of differentiation. Treatment for this type of cancer may include radical vulvectomy with removal of the inguinal lymph nodes. After such an operation, 75% of patients can live more than 5 years. Radiation therapy can be used as an independent method or in the preoperative period. Chemotherapy can be used in combination with radiation therapy or alone for advanced forms of the disease, using drugs such as bleomycetin, methotrexate, cisplatin, etc.

Vaginal cancer manifests itself as ulceration, bumpy papillary growths or submucosal infiltration that bleeds easily. Metastasis of this type of cancer occurs in the iliac and inguinal lymph nodes. With progressive growth, the tumor can grow into the bladder, urethra and rectum. Clinical symptoms include spotting and pain. To make a diagnosis, it is necessary to perform a biopsy and identify squamous cell carcinoma.

Differential diagnosis is carried out with cervical cancer with transition to the vagina and metastases of uterine cancer. The main treatment for vaginal cancer is radiation therapy, which may include external and intracavitary irradiation.

In conclusion, cancer of the vagina and external genitalia is a dangerous disease that can lead to serious consequences. In order to prevent the development of cancer of the vagina and external genitalia, it is necessary to monitor your health and see a doctor regularly for checks and examinations. Women aged 60 years and older should be especially attentive to their health and undergo regular medical examinations.

If you experience any symptoms such as ulceration, nodules, bleeding, itching, burning or pain, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Early detection and treatment of cancer of the vagina and external genitalia can improve the chances of successful treatment and survival.

It is also important to take care of your immunity and a healthy lifestyle, including eating right, regular exercise and avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol. These simple steps can help reduce your risk of developing cancer of the vagina and vulva and maintain overall health.

Although vaginal and vulvar cancer is a serious and dangerous disease, regular screening and early detection can help prevent its development or increase the chances of successful treatment. If you suspect the development of this disease, consult your doctor for advice and necessary research.