Vaginal cancer physical examination

Vaginal cancer Microchapters
Home
Patient Information
Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Vaginal cancer from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Screening
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Staging
Laboratory Findings
X Ray
CT
MRI
Ultrasound
Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Surgery
Primary Prevention
Secondary Prevention
Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy
Future or Investigational Therapies
Case Studies
Case #1
Vaginal cancer physical examination On the Web
Most recent articles
Most cited articles
Review articles
CME Programs
Powerpoint slides
Images
American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Vaginal cancer physical examination All Images X-rays Echo & Ultrasound CT Images MRI
Ongoing Trials at Clinical Trials.gov
US National Guidelines Clearinghouse
NICE Guidance
FDA on Vaginal cancer physical examination
CDC on Vaginal cancer physical examination
Vaginal cancer physical examination in the news
Blogs on Vaginal cancer physical examination
Directions to Hospitals Treating Vaginal cancer
Risk calculators and risk factors for Vaginal cancer physical examination

Overview

Complete pelvic examination is performed. During the speculum examination, the vagina should be inspected thoroughly, including visualization of the entire circumference and the fornices by moving the position of the speculum. Any abnormal areas or masses should be biopsied. The bimanual examination should include palpation of the vaginal walls for masses and evaluation for other pelvic masses. The groins should be palpated to assess for enlarged lymph nodes.

Physical Examination

• The lesion may be missed on initial examination if it is small and situated in the lower two-thirds of the vagina.
• During visual examination of the vagina, the anterior and posterior blades of the speculum obscure this area, so the tumor may be missed unless the vagina is inspected as the speculum is removed or the lesion is palpated on bimanual examination.
• Rectovaginal exam should also be performed to assess for parametrial and pelvic sidewall involvement and possible rectal involvement.
• The posterior wall of the upper one-third of the vagina is the most common site of primary vaginal carcinoma.
• The lesion may appear as a mass, a plaque, or an ulcer.
• Focused physical examination is performed to assess for metastatic disease.
• The inguinal area should be examined for enlarged lymph nodes.