Several methods can be recommended by doctors for treating vaginal cancer. Unlike other types of cancer in women that may prioritize surgery, vaginal cancer treatment often begins with radiotherapy or a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. In some cases, surgery may also be required in combination with other treatments.
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Understanding Vaginal Cancer Treatment
Vaginal cancer originates from cancerous cells that develop in the vaginal walls. The vagina is the canal that connects the cervix to the vaginal opening, serving as the birth canal during normal delivery. Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer in women. However, if detected early, the chances of recovery are relatively high.
Here are some of the treatment options available for vaginal cancer:
1. Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy is the primary treatment for vaginal cancer. However, it may be combined with other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy. Radiation therapy, or radiotherapy, is a cancer treatment that uses radiation beams to destroy cancer cells. There are two types of radiotherapy:
- Internal radiotherapy (Brachytherapy): This involves implanting a device containing radioactive material near the cancerous cells. The device emits radiation to kill cancer cells. Brachytherapy is a type of internal radiotherapy.
- External radiotherapy: This method uses a machine to emit radiation beams directed at the cancerous area to eliminate the cancer cells.
Among these two types, brachytherapy is often preferred over external radiotherapy for treating vaginal cancer.
Brachytherapy is performed by placing a radioactive material-containing device inside the vagina. This device can be either temporary or permanent.
Additionally, brachytherapy can be administered in low doses or high doses:
- Low-dose brachytherapy requires hospitalization for 1-2 days.
- High-dose brachytherapy allows for outpatient treatment, where the device is placed for a few minutes per session, requiring multiple hospital visits.
Brachytherapy is considered more effective because the emitted radiation is localized, affecting only the surrounding cancerous tissues. Compared to external radiation therapy, which uses machines, brachytherapy has fewer side effects as the radiation is focused and does not spread extensively.
2. Surgery
Surgical intervention is typically recommended when vaginal cancer is detected at an early stage. Surgery may also be necessary if radiotherapy does not yield the expected results.
Surgical procedures for vaginal cancer treatment may include:
- Partial or complete removal of the vagina
- Hysterectomy (removal of the vagina, cervix, and uterus)
- Removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes
- Radical pelvic surgery in cases where the cancer has spread, involving the removal of the rectum, bladder, and lower colon.
3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs containing chemical compounds to destroy cancer cells.
For vaginal cancer, chemotherapy is often combined with radiotherapy. In addition to standard chemotherapy, topical chemotherapy (applying medication directly onto the affected area) may be used. Topical chemotherapy is generally used for abnormal cell growth in the vaginal walls that has not yet been classified as cancerous.
4. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps boost the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. However, since vaginal cancer is rare, immunotherapy regimens for this condition are largely based on cervical cancer treatments. Many immunotherapy drugs for vaginal cancer are still in clinical trials. Patients interested in participating in clinical trials should consult their doctor.
5. Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically target cancer cells, reducing damage to surrounding healthy tissues compared to chemotherapy. While targeted therapy has fewer side effects, it is not commonly used for vaginal cancer compared to other treatment options.
Palliative Care for Vaginal Cancer
In addition to the above treatments, palliative therapy is available to improve comfort and manage symptoms. Palliative care may include radiotherapy to relieve pain and discomfort.
So far, radiotherapy, surgery, and chemotherapy remain the most common treatments for vaginal cancer. These treatments can be administered individually or in combination.
For personalized treatment, consult with our top gynecologic oncologists and oncology surgeons. Visit the Advanced Cancer and Radiotherapy Centre at Mandaya Royal Hospital Group for expert medical consultations and complete cancer care. Contact us via WhatsApp chat, book an appointment, or download the Care Dokter app on Google Play and the App Store.
