Vaginal Cancer Diagnosis

Vaginal cancer is a relatively rare malignant tumor of the female reproductive tract, more common in postmenopausal and elderly women, often secondary to cervical cancer or persistent HPV infection. Without early diagnosis and intervention, the tumor may spread to surrounding tissues, affect urination and defecation, and even metastasize distantly. Diagnosis relies on pelvic examination, tissue biopsy, and imaging, requiring high attention to early symptoms.

Diagnostic Basis

1. Gynecological examination
Gynecological examination is the first step in detecting vaginal lesions. Doctors usually use a speculum to observe the vaginal mucosa for ulcers, nodules, or irregular hyperplasia. If abnormal areas are found, direct biopsy sampling can be performed, making this an important basis for preliminary diagnosis.

2. Pathological biopsy
The most critical method for confirming vaginal cancer is pathological biopsy. Tissue samples from suspicious lesions are examined under a microscope to determine whether the cells are malignant, clarifying cancer type (such as squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma) and grade.

3. HPV testing and cervical cytology
Since HPV infection is highly associated with vaginal cancer, patients usually undergo HPV typing and cervical cytology (TCT). These tests help screen for high-risk HPV infections and the possibility of other lower genital tract malignancies.

4. Imaging examinations
MRI is the preferred method to evaluate tumor extent and invasion of surrounding tissues, especially useful in determining whether the bladder, rectum, or pelvic lymph nodes are involved. CT scans are suitable for screening distant metastases to the lungs and liver, while vaginal ultrasound helps observe local lesions.

5. PET-CT to assess tumor activity
PET-CT can more sensitively detect metabolically active tumor areas, valuable for recurrent vaginal cancer or disease evaluation, especially when lesions are unclear or not fully visible on conventional imaging.

6. Cystoscopy and rectoscopy
When tumors are suspected to involve the bladder or rectum, cystoscopy or rectoscopy can further evaluate organ involvement. If compression or erosion is observed, it assists in staging the tumor.

7. Blood tests
Although no specific tumor markers can definitively diagnose vaginal cancer, blood counts, liver and kidney function, and tumor-related indicators (such as SCC antigen) help with auxiliary diagnosis and monitoring treatment efficacy.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of vaginal cancer requires comprehensive evaluation using multiple tests. Experts at United Life International Medical Center recommend that women with unexplained bleeding or suspected lesions undergo timely systematic examinations to ensure early identification and treatment, thereby improving recovery potential.