Radiation therapy in carcinoma of the vagina

A retrospective analysis of 113 patients with car cinoma of the vagina shows the prognosis to be similar to that of comparable stages of carcinoma of the cervix. The 5-year absolute cure rale was 77% for Stage 0, 82% for Stage I, 53% for Stage IIA, about 25% for Stages IIB and III, and 14% for Stage IV. Tumor control was excellent in carcinoma in situ and in early invasive lesions treated by intracavitary and interstitial sources alone or combined with ex ternal beam in Stage I lesions. Local and pelvic failures were more frequently seen in tumors more extensive than Stage II A. Integrated irradiation combining interstitial and intracavitary sources with external beam supervoltage by means of computer calculations will improve therapeutic results with a minimal increase in complications. The importance of careful fol-Iowup after irradiation and the early treatment of recurrent lesions is emphasized since a number of these patients can be salvaged by a subsequent surgical procedure.