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Vulvar cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the vulva, which is the external female genital area. It often develops in connection with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection or lichen sclerosus. The condition may present with symptoms such as skin discoloration or open sores on the vulva. Treatment typically involves surgical intervention, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
What is Vulvar Cancer?
Vulvar cancer is a malignancy that develops in the tissues of the vulva, the external female genital organ. The vulva includes the vaginal opening, inner and outer labia, clitoris, urethral opening, and perineum. Typically a slow-progressing type of cancer, vulvar cancer is often detected after the formation of lesions in the tissues. From a medical perspective, it is characterized by abnormal growth in the outer layer of the skin.
Types of vulvar cancer
Vulvar cancer types are classified according to the kind of cell in which they originate. The main types of vulvar cancer include:
Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma
Approximately 90% of vulvar cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. They develop in the cells located on the surface of the skin.
Vulvar melanoma
Around 5% of vulvar cancers are melanomas. These tumors progress rapidly and have a high risk of spreading to other parts of the body.
Other, less common types of vulvar cancer include:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Sarcoma
- Verrucous carcinoma
- Bartholin gland adenocarcinoma
- Paget’s disease of the vulva
Vulvar Cancer Symptoms
The first sign of vulvar cancer is often a change in skin color on the inner or outer labia. However, since cancer can develop in any part of the vulva, timely diagnosis is essential.
Common symptoms of vulvar cancer include:
- Skin appearing lighter or darker than normal
- Presence of white skin patches
- Development of thickened or rough skin lesion
- Persistent lumps or wart-like growths that do not heal
- Continuous itching or burning sensations
- Bleeding outside of the menstrual period
- Tenderness and pain
What Causes Vulvar Cancer?
The cause of vulvar cancer is the uncontrolled growth of cells in the vulva. If left untreated, it can spread to other areas of the vulva. The most common type, vulvar squamous cell carcinoma, may develop due to:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Lichen sclerosus
Risk factors for vulvar cancer
- Advancing age, which increases the likelihood of developing vulvar cancer
- Certain HPV types that can cause cellular changes leading to vulvar cancer
- Growths associated with lichen sclerosus that may progress to cancer
- Untreated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), which can develop into cancer
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, which weakens the body’s ability to fight cancer
- Smoking, which raises the risk of vulvar cancer as well as many other types of cancer
How is Vulvar Cancer Diagnosed?
Several tests may be performed to diagnose vulvar cancer accurately, and in many cases, more than one method is required. The diagnostic procedures for vulvar cancer include:
Pelvic examination
The doctor physically examines the vulva to check for unusual skin changes.
Pap smear
During a pelvic exam, the doctor may collect a sample of cells to test for cancerous changes.
Colposcopy
A device called a colposcope, equipped with light and magnification, is used to examine the vulva, vagina, and cervix in greater detail.
Biopsy
A specialist removes a sample of abnormal tissue to test for cancer cells. A biopsy is the only definitive way to confirm a diagnosis of vulvar cancer.
Vulvar Cancer Treatment
The treatment of vulvar cancer depends on factors such as the patient’s overall health, the stage of the cancer, and whether the disease has recurred. The main treatment methods include:
Surgery
Surgical intervention plays a central role in vulvar cancer treatment. The goal is to completely remove the cancer while preserving sexual function.
Radiation therapy
Radiation uses X-rays or other high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. In vulvar cancer, the most common approach is external beam radiation therapy.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs designed to target and destroy cancer cells throughout the body.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vulvar Cancer
How does vulvar cancer look like?
Vulvar cancer may appear as skin color changes, white or dark patches, thickened or rough lesions, persistent lumps, or wart-like growths on the vulva.
What were your first symptoms of vulvar cancer?
Early symptoms often include itching, burning, skin discoloration, or small sores on the vulva that do not heal.
What is stage 4 vulvar cancer?
Stage 4 vulvar cancer is the most advanced stage, where the disease has spread to nearby organs such as the bladder, rectum, or distant parts of the body.
Can a lump on the vulva be a sign of cancer?
Yes, a lump on the vulva can sometimes indicate vulvar cancer, though it may also be due to benign conditions; medical evaluation is essential.
What is Stage 1 vulva cancer?
Stage 1 vulvar cancer means the tumor is confined to the vulva or perineum and has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs.
Can vulva cancer be cured?
Vulvar cancer can often be cured when diagnosed at an early stage, typically through surgery, sometimes combined with radiation or chemotherapy.
Which department should you visit for vulvar cancer?
Vulvar cancer, patients are usually referred to the gynecologic oncology department, where specialists in cancers of the female reproductive system provide diagnosis and treatment.
