What Does Squamous Cell Carcinoma in the Vagina Look Like?

Squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina is a cancer that develops within the upper lining of your vaginal wall. According to Merck Manuals, squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina accounts "for up to 95 percent of vaginal cancers." The development of squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina can sometimes be attributed to HPV, or the human papillomavirus. It's important to get a routine Pap smear to catch the early forms of squamous cell carcinoma. Knowing the early signs of the disease can also prevent serious complications from occurring.

Time Frame

• When squamous cell carcinoma begins to develop within your vagina, the initial phase is known as dysplasia. If you undergo a Pap smear, your gynecologist will find the development of abnormal cells within the surface of cervix. A detection of dysplasia is considered to be precancerous and should be treated. Once a tumor begins to invade your surrounding vaginal tissues, pelvic walls, bladder or your rectum, the cancer becomes more difficult to treat.

Early Signs

• The early signs of squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina begins as abnormal bleeding. You may notice that you bleed after sexual intercourse or have bleeding between menstrual cycles. Sexual intercourse may also be painful. Other signs can include a vaginal discharge that is watery and foul smelling. If a squamous cell carcinoma has grown substantially large, you may feel the need to use the restroom more or have pain when urinating.

Symptoms

• According to the Mayo Clinic, you may develop sores that are red and raised around your genital region. These sores can be located around the lining of your vagina. The sores can bleed and create pain for you. You may also experience itching with the growths. These growths will also be found internally, so it is important to be seen by a gynecologist if you locate any external growths on your vagina.

Seeing a Gynecologist

• If you begin to experience other symptoms, such as pain in your pelvis, back or legs or if you develop swelling in your lower extremities, you should immediately see your gynecologist. Only a gynecologist can asses if the signs and symptoms you're experiencing can be attributed to squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina, or perhaps and STD such as genital warts.

Tests

• If you identify a growth on your vagina, get a Pap smear. Getting a Pap smear can detect whether you have the beginning signs of squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina. Your gynecologist may also take a biopsy (tissue sample) during a Pap smear to determine if any cancer cells are present within your vaginal wall lining.