About vulvar cancer:

Vulvar cancer is uncommon and usually seen in older women.  It occurs on the outer skin surface of the genital area. The average age at time of diagnosis is 70; less than 20% of women are younger than 50 years of age. It can be seen in women who have a history of abnormal PAP tests and can be associated with HPV (Human Papilloma Virus).  Additionally, women with a history of lichen sclerosis, a chronic inflammatory condition of the vulva, are at increased risk of developing vulvar cancer. Identifying and treating pre-cancerous lesions of the lower genital tract – cervix, vagina and vulva is an effective measure to decrease the chance of developing vulvar cancer.

Types:

• vulvar squamous cell carcinoma
• vulvar melanoma

Symptoms:

• vulvar itching
• vulvar pain
• vaginal bleeding
• vulvar skin changes
• vulvar mass

Diagnosis:

Assessment of a patient with suspected vulvar cancer may include

• Complete physical examination including evaluation of inguinal lymph nodes
• Documentation of location of mass with respect to surrounding structures (ie. clitoris, anus, urethra)
• Colposcopy
• Tissue biopsy with expert pathology review
• CT of the chest, abdomen, pelvis
• MRI
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Treatment:

Treatment options depend on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health status. Using state-of the art technology, our surgeons can perform surgery with specific lymph node assessment. Radiation with chemotherapy or chemotherapy alone may be used to treat vulvar cancer.

Read more about vulvar health here.