Teen’s Bleeding Misdiagnosed as Stress

Liliana "Lili" Castaneda, a 19-year-old from Chicago, initially thought she was experiencing her first period during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, what started as typical monthly bleeding quickly escalated into a daily occurrence that soaked through pads in just 15 minutes.

Despite these alarming symptoms, when Lili sought medical help, her concerns were brushed off as merely pandemic-related stress. It took multiple visits before doctors took her seriously, leading to a shocking diagnosis.

Shocking Diagnosis Reveals Rare Cancer

Just one month shy of her 15th birthday, Lili was diagnosed with clear cell carcinoma, an exceedingly rare type of vaginal cancer usually seen in postmenopausal women. Dario Roque, a gynecologic oncologist, noted Lili as his youngest patient ever with this condition, usually seen in women much older.

Clear cell carcinoma is characterized by clear-looking cells under a microscope and can produce alarming symptoms such as abnormal bleeding and pelvic pain. Northwestern Medicine highlights the importance of acting on such symptoms without delay.

Intensive Treatment and Challenges

At diagnosis, Lili’s tumor was the size of a golf ball, rendering immediate surgery impossible. Doctors administered both external and internal radiation treatments in combination with chemotherapy to shrink the tumor, which required significant doses to eradicate.

Unfortunately, due to her pre-existing Turner syndrome, a genetic condition that affects female development and leads to infertility, Lili’s family did not face the decision of preserving her fertility, which is often critical during cancer treatment.

A Bright Future Ahead

Remarkably, Lili celebrated her victory over cancer in March 2021 and is now looking forward to a future in nursing. "I can’t wait to become a nurse and help other kids navigate their medical journey," she said, filled with hope and determination.

Lili's story serves as a poignant reminder about the importance of listening to one’s body and seeking medical attention when things feel off, especially during uncertain times like the pandemic.