Vulvar cancer is an uncommon gynecological cancer, representing only 4% of all gynecological cancers diagnosed in Canada. It presents in both younger and older women, and can be associated with HPV (human papilloma virus) or chronic skin conditions, such as Lichen Sclerosis. Our clinical expertise and multi-disciplinary team which include gynecologic oncologist, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, pathologists and radiologists allows us to provide excellent care to patients diagnosed with vulvar cancer and conduct novel research to improve outcomes.

Program Objectives:

• To provide prompt access to care for patients with suspicious or confirmed vulvar cancer
• To provide a comprehensive and multi-disciplinary assessment and treatment of patients with diagnosis of vulvar cancer, surgery, radiation and chemotherapy
• To build a collaborative research platform to further study clinical characteristics and patient outcomes
• To enhance the patient experience and address challenges associated with treatment modalities, including sexual health, body image and psychosocial distress
• To provide collaborative expertise to advance the treatment of this uncommon cancer

About Vulvar cancer:

TYPES:

• Adenocarcinoma
• Paget’s disease
• Sarcoma
• Basal cell

SYMPTOMS:

• mass
• itching
• pain/soreness
• raised and thickened patches of skin
• open sore or ulcer
• discharge (can be odorous)
• bleeding
• swelling,
• increasing size or color of a mole
• urinary symptoms (burning, difficulty passing urine, bleeding)
• bowel symptoms (pain with passing bowel movement, bleeding)