Vulvar Cancers

Vulvar cancers are cancers that affect the external genital area of women. It is a rare type of cancer, accounting for about 5% of all gynecologic cancers. Although the exact cause is unknown, some risk factors increase a woman's chance of developing vulvar cancer. These include human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, smoking, and the presence of precancerous (dysplastic) lesions on the vulva.

The most common symptom of vulvar cancer is a persistent sore or lump, which may be accompanied by bleeding, itching, or burning. Other signs and symptoms may include a change in the size or shape of the vulva, a rash or wart-like growth, or a swelling in the groin area.

Diagnosis is made through a physical examination and further tests, such as a biopsy or imaging tests. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these. Depending on the stage of the cancer, vulvar cancer can be cured or kept under control for a long period of time.

Risk Factors

The exact cause of vulvar cancer is unknown, but certain risk factors may increase a woman's chance of developing the disease. These include:

Age: Vulvar cancer is rare in women younger than 40.
HPV infection: HPV is a common virus that infects the skin. It can lead to cervical cancer and other types of cancer, including vulvar cancer.
Smoking: People who smoke are more likely to develop vulvar cancer than nonsmokers.
Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN): This is a precancerous condition in which abnormal cells grow on the vulva.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common symptom of vulvar cancer is a persistent sore or lump. This may be accompanied by bleeding or sensation of burning or itching. Other signs and symptoms may include:

A change in the size or shape of the vulva
A rash or wart-like growth
A swelling in the groin area
Pain or tenderness in the vulva
Discharge from the vulva

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of vulvar cancer usually begins with a physical examination of the vulva. Your doctor may also use a variety of tests, such as a biopsy or imaging tests. Treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these.

Surgery is the most common treatment for vulvar cancer. This procedure typically removes the cancerous tumor and some surrounding tissue. Radiation and chemotherapy may also be used to treat vulvar cancer.

Vulvar cancer can be cured if it is diagnosed early and treated appropriately. The earlier the cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better the chance of a cure. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of vulvar cancer and to see a doctor if you experience any of them.