Neoplasms of the vagina following cervical carcinoma.

Neoplasm in the vagina which occurs following treatment of cervical carcinoma could represent a separate primary neoplasm, a “field” response to a common carcinogen, or be due to neoplastic transformation of tissue from previous radiation treatment. Fifty patients with a second neoplasm in the vagina were identified: 17 following total hysterectomy for carcinoma in situ of cervix; 4 following radical hysterectomy; and 29 following radiotherapy for invasive cervical carcinoma. Their clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment modalities are presented. Since vaginal neoplasm may occur long after treatment of the initial cervical carcinoma especially after previous radiotherapy, life-long follow-up of all patients with cervical carcinoma is mandatory.