Vulvar Cancer - Summary, Symptoms, Treatments
- What is vulvar cancer?
- What are the signs and symptoms of vulvar cancer?
- How is vulvar cancer diagnosed?
- What causes vulvar cancer?
- Is vulvar cancer genetic?
- Is vulvar cancer curable?
- Is there a screening test for vulvar cancer?
- What are the best things women can do to reduce the risk of vulvar cancer?
- How is vulvar cancer treated?
- Discover More About Vulvar Cancer
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What is vulvar cancer?
Vulvar cancer occurs in the vulva, the outer part of the female genitals. It most commonly affects the labia, but it can also develop in other parts of the vulva, such as the clitoris or the vaginal opening. There are different types of vulvar cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma, which arises from the flat cells that make up most of the skin of the vulva, is the most common.
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What are the signs and symptoms of vulvar cancer?
Symptoms of vulvar cancer can vary, but often include:
- Itching or pain in the vulvar area.
- A lump, sore, or ulcer on the vulva that doesn’t heal.
- Bleeding or discharge not related to menstruation.
- Changes in the appearance of the skin, such as color or texture changes.
- Burning sensation or discomfort during urination.
Many of these symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions, so it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis if any symptoms are present and persist. Early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.
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How is vulvar cancer diagnosed?
Diagnosing vulvar cancer begins with a physical examination so that your doctor can evaluate the symptoms you are experiencing and discuss your health history in detail. Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests (like ultrasound or CT scans) or biopsy to obtain a tissue sample for examination under a microscope.
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What causes vulvar cancer?
The exact cause of vulvar cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified that can increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
Factors that may increase the risk of vulvar cancer include:
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause changes in the cells of the vagina. HPV is the most common cause of vaginal cancer. The high-risk strains of HPV, especially HPV-16 and HPV-18, are strongly linked to vaginal and cervical cancers.
- The risk of vulvar cancer increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in women over 65. However, younger women can also develop vulvar cancer, especially if they have HPV infection.
- Certain chronic skin conditions, such as lichen sclerosus and lichen planus, can cause long-term inflammation and scarring in the vulva, which increases the risk of cancer.
- Women who have had cervical cancer or cervical dysplasia (precancerous changes in the cervix) are at a higher risk of developing vaginal cancer. This is often due to shared risk factors, such as HPV infection.
- Exposure to Diethylstilbestrol (DES), a synthetic estrogen that was prescribed to pregnant women between the 1940s and 1970s to prevent miscarriage. Women whose mothers took DES during pregnancy have a higher risk of developing a rare form of vaginal cancer called clear cell adenocarcinoma.
- A weakened immune system, whether from HIV infection, long-term use of immunosuppressive drugs (such as those used after organ transplants) or other conditions.
- Smoking. The carcinogens in tobacco can damage the cells of the vagina and reduce the immune system’s ability to clear HPV infections.
Is vulvar cancer genetic?
Vulvar cancer is not typically considered a hereditary or genetic cancer, meaning it is not usually passed down directly from parent to child through genes. However, there may be some genetic predispositions that slightly increase the risk of developing vulvar cancer. It is best to talk with your doctor about any genetic factors that may be present.
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Is vulvar cancer curable?
Vulvar cancer, especially when detected early, is often curable. The success of treatment depends on several factors, including the stage and grade of the cancer, the patient’s overall health and how well the cancer responds to treatment.
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Is there a screening test for vulvar cancer?
There is no specific screening test for vulvar cancer. Routine pelvic exams by a healthcare provider can help detect any abnormal changes, such as unusual lesions, lumps or skin changes that may warrant further investigation. Additionally, women are encouraged to perform regular self-examinations of their vulvar area. Familiarizing oneself with the normal appearance can help in noticing any changes, such as new growths, sores or discolorations.
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What are the best things women can do to reduce the risk of vulvar cancer?
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent vulvar cancer, women can reduce their risk by getting vaccinated against HPV. Regular gynecological exams and self-examinations can help detect any unusual changes early. Women should be vigilant about symptoms such as persistent itching, burning or the presence of new lesions or growths, and seek medical advice if any changes occur.
HPV vaccination protects against the most common high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV types 16 and 18, which cause about 70% of cervical cancer cases. The vaccine is most effective when given before someone becomes sexually active, typically recommended for girls and boys aged 9-12. Vaccination is also recommended for women (and men) up to age 26, and sometimes up to age 45, depending on circumstances, although the benefit decreases if they’ve already been exposed to HPV.
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How is vulvar cancer treated?
Treatment options for vulvar cancer depend on a number of factors, including the specific type, size, location and grade of the tumor and the patient’s overall health. Surgery to remove the tumor or affected area is the most common treatment. In some cases, lymph nodes in the groin may also be removed. Treatment options can also include radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy or immunotherapy.
FCS is committed to advancing treatment and outcomes for patients with gynecologic cancers. Each year, dozens of clinical trials are conducted within FCS to find newer, better and more targeted treatments for the different types of gynecologic cancer.
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