Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar cancer is a rare type of cancer that occurs on the vulva, which is the external part of a woman's genitalia. It can affect any part of the vulva, including the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening.

Types of Vulvar Cancer

There are several types of vulvar cancer, including:

• Squamous cell carcinoma: This is the most common type of vulvar cancer, accounting for about 90% of cases. It begins in the squamous cells, which are the flat, thin cells that cover the surface of the vulva.
• Melanoma: This type of vulvar cancer begins in the melanocytes, which are the cells that produce pigment. Melanoma is more aggressive than squamous cell carcinoma and has a higher risk of spreading to other parts of the body.
• Adenocarcinoma: This type of vulvar cancer begins in the glandular cells, which are the cells that produce mucus and other fluids. Adenocarcinoma is rare and typically occurs in the Bartholin glands, which are located on either side of the vaginal opening.
• Basal cell carcinoma: This type of vulvar cancer is rare and typically occurs in older women. It begins in the basal cells, which are the cells that produce new skin cells.
• Sarcoma: This type of vulvar cancer begins in the connective tissue, which includes the muscles, fat, and blood vessels. Sarcomas are rare and can occur anywhere on the vulva.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of vulvar cancer is not known, but there are several risk factors that increase a woman's chance of developing the disease. These include:

• Age: Vulvar cancer is most common in women over the age of 60.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that can cause changes in the cells of the vulva, leading to cancer.
• Smoking: Smoking tobacco products increases the risk of developing vulvar cancer.
• Weakened immune system: Women with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or taking immunosuppressive medications, are at higher risk for developing vulvar cancer.

Symptoms

The symptoms of vulvar cancer can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Common symptoms include:

• Itching or burning in the vulva
• Pain or tenderness in the vulva
• A lump or bump on the vulva
• Bleeding or discharge from the vulva
• Changes in the color or texture of the skin on the vulva

Diagnosis

Vulvar cancer is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, biopsy, and imaging tests. The diagnosis process may include:

• Physical examination: A healthcare provider will perform a pelvic exam to look for any abnormalities on the vulva.
• Blood tests: Blood tests may be ordered to check for signs of infection or other conditions that may be related to vulvar cancer.
• Biopsy: A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue from the vulva and examining it under a microscope for cancer cells.
• Imaging tests: Imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRI scans, may be ordered to determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Treatment

The treatment for vulvar cancer depends on the stage and location of the tumor. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery: Surgery is often the primary treatment for vulvar cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and any affected tissue.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with surgery.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses medications to kill cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with surgery and radiation therapy.

Stages of Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar cancer is typically staged using the FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) staging system. The stages are:

• Stage I: The cancer is limited to the vulva and has not spread to other parts of the body.
• Stage II: The cancer has spread to the perineum, which is the area between the vagina and anus.
• Stage III: The cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in the groin or pelvis.
• Stage IV: The cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs, liver, or bones.

Prognosis

The prognosis for vulvar cancer depends on the stage and location of the tumor. Women with early-stage vulvar cancer have a high survival rate, while those with advanced disease may have a poorer prognosis.