Carcinoma of the neovagina after male-to-female reassignment

J Low Genit Tract Dis. 2014 Apr;18(2):E43-5. doi: 10.1097/LGT.0b013e3182976219.

Abstract

Background: Carcinoma of the neovagina is extremely rare, and only one other case has been reported after sex-reassignment surgery. Malignancies seem to be dependent on the original tissue and are thought to be associated with HPV infection or chronic irritation.

Case report: A 53-year-old male-to-female transsexual presented 21 years after initial surgery with vaginal discharge that was found to be due to a moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. She was treated with chemoradiation with disease remission; however, she had significant stenosis and narrowing of the neovagina.

Comment: The optimum treatment is unclear, although radiation seems to be the most common technique with surgery an alternative. All patients should have regular clinical follow-up provided by a primary treating unit, which includes pelvic examination and cytologic smears. As a minimum, follow-up should occur as per other vaginal malignancies for at least 10 years.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / diagnosis*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / therapy
  • Drug Therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiotherapy
  • Sex Reassignment Procedures*
  • Transgender Persons*
  • Vaginal Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Vaginal Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Vaginal Neoplasms / therapy