What is Vulvar Cancer?

Vulvar cancer is an uncommon/rare type of cancer that occurs in the tissues of the vulva, which is the external part of the female genital organs. The vulva includes the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, vaginal opening, and associated skin. This region provides protection to the female reproductive organs and has important glands and nerve endings.

Although vulvar cancer accounts for only a small percentage of gynecologic cancers, it is an important condition to recognize because early diagnosis greatly improves treatment outcomes. The disease usually develops slowly and may begin as precancerous changes in vulvar skin cells before eventually becoming invasive cancer.

Most cases of vulvar cancer occur in women over the age of 60, although it can affect younger women as well. In recent years, increased awareness of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has helped doctors better understand the causes of certain types of vulvar cancer.

Early symptoms include itching, changes in the skin, or small lumps on the vulva. Because the signs/symptoms can easily be mistaken for other conditions, such as infections and skin problems, some women avoid seeking medical attention. However, it is always important to seek medical attention if the symptoms persist.

with the improvement in diagnostic technology, surgical methods, and radiation and target therapies, the survival rates of women with vulvar cancer have increased considerably.

What are the common types of vulvar cancer?

Vulvar cancer may arise from different cell types in vulvar tissues. The following are the most common types of vulvar cancer:

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of vulva cancer, constituting almost 90 percent of the total cases. The name "squamous" refers to the type of cells involved in this form of cancer: squamous cells.

This cancer often begins as a precancerous condition known as vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN). Over time, abnormal cells may penetrate deeper layers of tissue and become invasive cancer.

Squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva usually develops slowly, so early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Melanoma

Melanoma is a cancer that develops in pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Although melanoma is more commonly associated with skin cancer elsewhere in the body, it can also occur in the vulva.

Vulvar melanoma is rare but tends to be more aggressive than squamous cell carcinoma.

Adenocarcinoma

Adenocarcinoma arises from glandular cells in the vulva. These glands produce mucus and other secretions that help maintain moisture and lubrication.

Adenocarcinoma of the vulva is uncommon and may arise from specialized glands such as Bartholin glands.

Sarcoma

Sarcoma is a rare/uncommon cancer that develops in connective tissues/cells such as muscle, fat, or blood vessels. Vulvar sarcomas are uncommon but may occur in both children and adults.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma, a slow-growing cancer, develops from the skin's basal cells. Although it is most often found in sun-exposed areas of the body, it can occasionally occur in the vulva.

What are the early symptoms and warning signs of Vulvar Cancer?

The symptoms of vulvar cancer

Symptoms of Vulvar Cancer may vary depending on the tumor's size and location. In the early stages, some women may not notice any symptoms at all.

Common symptoms include:

• Severe itchiness in the vulva
• Vulva pain or soreness
• Presence of a bump, warts, or ulcers
• Changes in the color, thickness, or texture of the skin
• Sensation of burning or irritation
• Unrelated bleeding
• Painful intercourse
• Presence of open sores that do not heal
• Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin region

It is also important to note that these may not be related to cancer but may also result from other non-cancerous conditions like infections and skin diseases. However, it is important to seek medical attention if they persist for more than a few weeks.

Factors Leading to Vulvar Cancer

Cancer in the vulva develops due to genetic mutations in the vulva's cells. These mutated cells begin to multiply and accumulate, forming tumors.

The actual or exact cause of these genetic mutations is not always clear, but medical experts and researchers have identified several factors that increase the likelihood of developing vulvar cancer.

How does chronic HPV infection increase the Risk of vulvar cancer?

Several factors may enhance a woman's risk of developing vulvar cancer.

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: Persistent or chronic infection with certain high-risk types of HPV is strongly associated with many cases of vulvar cancer, as the HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that can cause abnormal cellular changes.
• Age: Vulvar cancer is more commonly diagnosed in older women, particularly those over the age of 60.
• Smoking: Smoking causes the immune system to become weak and increases the risk of HPV-related cancers.
• Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN): VIN is a precancerous condition involving abnormal cells in the vulvar skin. Without treatment, these abnormal cells may develop into invasive cancer.
• Chronic Skin Conditions: Certain chronic inflammatory skin disorders affecting the vulva may increase cancer risk.
• Weak Immune System: Women with weakened immune systems due to illness or medications may be more susceptible to HPV infections and related cancers.
• Previous Cervical Cancer: A history of cervical cancer or cervical precancer may also increase the risk of developing vulvar cancer.

How do Doctors Diagnose and Tests Vulvar Cancer?

The diagnosis of vulvar cancer requires a mix of imaging scans, analytical tests, and clinical examinations.

Physical Examination

Doctors conduct a physical exam on the affected person. During this test, doctors closely look at the affected person's vulva and surrounding tissues to identify abnormal growths, discolorations, and changes in skin color.

Colposcopy

This test involves using a special instrument to closely look at the affected person’s vulva and cervix. This test is used to identify abnormal tissues that may require further testing.

Biopsy

Biopsy is used as the most accurate method in diagnosing vulvar cancer. During this test, abnormal tissues in the affected person’s body are removed and closely examined to identify cancerous cells.

Imaging Tests

Imaging techniques can also be employed as an option to assess whether cancer has spread from the original site to the surrounding tissues and other parts of the body.

Some of the common imaging techniques include:

• CT scan
• MRI scan
• PET scan
• Ultrasound

What are the stages of Vulvar Cancer?

Staging describes how far cancer has spread within the body, helping doctors determine the stage and choose the most appropriate treatment.

• Stage I - Cancer is confined to the vulva or perineum and not extended or spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage II - Cancer is found to have grown larger and may involve nearby tissues, but has not spread to lymph nodes.
• Stage III - Cancer appears to have expanded to nearby lymph nodes in the groin.
• Stage IV - Cancer has expanded/spread to distant organs such as the bladder, rectum, or lungs.

Early-stage cancers usually have better treatment outcomes.

What are the standard Treatment Options for Vulvar Cancer?

Treatment for vulvar cancer depends on several factors, including the stage or position of the disease, tumor size, and the patient's overall health, as most treatment plans may need a combination of therapies.

Surgery

Surgery is the commonly selected treatment option for vulvar cancer, as the goal of medical professionals remains to remove cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

Types of surgical procedures include:

• Local Excision: Removal of the tumor along with a small margin of healthy tissue.
• Partial Vulvectomy: This involves the removal of a part of the vulva that contains a tumor.
• Radical Vulvectomy: In cases of malignancy, the entire vulva is removed during this treatment.
• Lymph Node Removal: The groin area's lymph nodes may also be removed in order to check for the spread of cancer.

Modern surgical techniques help to avoid complications and preserve functions.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy also treats the condition by using high-energy radiation beams, destroying the cancer cells of the patient.

It may be used:

• After the surgery/operation is performed to eliminate the remaining cancer cells
• Before surgery to shrink tumors
• As the primary treatment option for those who cannot undergo surgery

The most used technique is external beam radiation treatment.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of medications that destroy cancer cells or prevent them from growing.

Chemotherapy may be recommended:

• Along with radiation therapy
• For advanced-stage cancer
• When cancer has spread to other organs

These medications may be administered intravenously or orally.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically attack molecular changes in cancer cells. These treatments can slow tumor growth while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

Immunotherapy

This therapy helps the immune system detect and destroy cancer cells, which may be used for certain advanced or recurrent cancers.

How can Prevent Vulvar Cancer?

Although vulvar cancer cannot always be prevented, certain measures may help reduce risk.

Preventive strategies include:

• Receiving the HPV vaccine
• Practicing safe sexual habits
• Avoiding smoking
• Maintaining good genital hygiene
• Attending regular gynecological examinations

Early treatment of precancerous conditions such as VIN can also prevent the development of invasive cancer.

What is the Prognosis and Recovery expectation for early-stage Vulvar Cancer?

The outlook for vulvar cancer depends largely on the stage at which it is diagnosed.

When detected early, treatment is often highly successful, and survival rates are favorable. Many patients achieve long-term remission after surgery and additional therapies.

However, advanced-stage cancers may require more intensive treatment and carry a higher risk of recurrence.

Regular follow-up care is important after treatment to monitor for any signs of cancer returning.

with improvements in medical technology and multidisciplinary cancer care, outcomes for women with vulvar cancer continue to improve.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Vulvar Cancer Treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced Vulvar Cancer treatment in Lucknow, India, at an affordable cost. We have a team of experienced gynecological oncologists and surgical specialists who provide accurate diagnosis and both non-surgical and surgical treatment options including surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Our Gynecological Oncology and Surgical Care team has decades of experience in successfully treating Vulvar Cancer in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert consultation for Vulvar Cancer Treatment in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

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