Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar cancer is rare and originates in the tissues of the vulva, typically forming a lump that frequently causes itching. Its prevalence is usually noticed in older females. Two most common types include - vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (amounting to almost 90% of cases) and vulvar melanoma.

Common symptoms include:
  • Bleeding
  • Itching in the vulvar region
  • Skin discoloration, becoming white or red
  • Skin breaks or sores
  • Wart-like growth near the vulva
  • Pain or tenderness in the region
  • Ulcers

Like most cancers, its origin is not clear what causes vulvar cancer but there are some risk factors that may increase the risk.

Risk factors include:
  • Being exposed to HPV
  • Smoking tobacco
  • Older age (avg age of diagnosis - 65)
  • Weak immunity
  • A history of precancerous condition of the vulva
  • Previous skin condition involving the vulva

Some treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. However, if one notices any symptoms, it is advised to consult a gynecologist immediately. As there is no specific evidence for screening vulvar cancer, self-examination in women with lichen sclerosus, a condition related to development of vulvar cancer, is encouraged. We urge women to receive the HPV vaccine early on to reduce the overall risk of contracting HPV virus and thsu reducing contracting HPV-dependent vulvar cancer.

Zydus Cancer Hospital, one of the leading cancer hospitals in Gujarat, takes a multidisciplinary approach which involves inputs from gynecologic oncologist, medical oncologist, and radiation oncologists.