Carcinoma in situ of the vagina: past and present management

The experience of the Southern California Cancer Center with carcinoma in situ of the vagina has been analyzed. Thirty-five patients were treated over 22 years. Patients with carcinoma in situ of the vagina are usually asymptomatic and most often have no visible or palpable lesions; diagnosis therefore depends upon directed biopsy in patients with abnormal routine vaginal cytology. Local radium application was the most frequent modality of treatment in this study group of patients, and excellent results were obtained. The need for cytologic evaluation after hysterectomy is emphasized. Colposcopy is a valuable aid in the diagnosis and follow-up of these patients.