Patterns of recurrence of primary carcinoma of the vagina

Ninety-two cases of primary carcinoma of the vagina treated at the Massachusetts General Hospital were reviewed from 1961 to 1981. Forty patients were found to have recurrence. Their original clinical stage, location of lesion, histologic subtype, tumor differentiation, and treatment modality were examined to predict recurrence. Staging was the only variable predictive of recurrence. Location of lesion within the vagina was predictive of the site of recurrence. Upper (distal) vagina lesions more commonly recurred locally. In contrast, lower (proximal) lesions were associated with pelvic sidewall and distant recurrence. Adequate staging at the time of initial presentation will have implications on recurrence and prognosis.