Summary about Disease
Vulvar cancer is a rare type of cancer that occurs on the outer surface of the female genitalia (vulva). The vulva includes the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and the opening of the vagina. Most vulvar cancers are slow-growing and are often diagnosed early. Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the cancerous tissue.
Symptoms
Persistent itching in the vulvar area
Pain and tenderness in the vulva
Changes in skin color of the vulva (lighter or darker than normal)
A lump, sore, or ulcer on the vulva that doesn't heal
Bleeding or discharge from the vulva that is not related to menstruation
Burning sensation
Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin area
Causes
The exact causes of vulvar cancer are not fully understood, but several factors are associated with an increased risk:
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that is linked to many vulvar cancers.
Lichen sclerosus: This is a skin condition that causes thin, white patches on the vulva. It can increase the risk of vulvar cancer if left untreated.
Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN): This is a precancerous condition of the vulva.
Age: The risk of vulvar cancer increases with age.
Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of many types of cancer, including vulvar cancer.
Weakened immune system: A weakened immune system, such as from HIV or organ transplant medications, may increase the risk.
Medicine Used
Treatment for vulvar cancer depends on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Medicines that might be used include:
Chemotherapy drugs: such as Cisplatin, 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)
Immunotherapy drugs: such as Pembrolizumab
Targeted therapy drugs: such as Cetuximab
Is Communicable
Vulvar cancer itself is not communicable or contagious. It cannot be passed from one person to another. However, HPV, a major risk factor for vulvar cancer, is a sexually transmitted infection and is therefore communicable.
Precautions
Get the HPV vaccine: The HPV vaccine can protect against the types of HPV that are most often linked to vulvar cancer.
Practice safe sex: Using condoms can reduce the risk of HPV infection.
Get regular pelvic exams and Pap tests: These tests can help detect precancerous conditions of the vulva and cervix.
Treat vulvar skin conditions: If you have lichen sclerosus or other vulvar skin conditions, follow your doctor's recommendations for treatment and management.
Quit smoking: If you smoke, quitting can reduce your risk of vulvar cancer.
How long does an outbreak last?
Vulvar cancer does not have "outbreaks" in the same way that some viral infections do (like herpes). Rather, vulvar cancer is a progressive disease. Symptoms may appear gradually and persist if left untreated.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical exam: A doctor will examine the vulva for any abnormalities, such as lumps, sores, or changes in skin color.
Colposcopy: This procedure uses a magnifying instrument called a colposcope to examine the vulva closely.
Biopsy: A small sample of tissue is removed from the vulva and examined under a microscope to look for cancer cells.
Imaging tests: CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans may be used to determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of vulvar cancer symptoms can vary. In some cases, symptoms may develop slowly over months or years. In other cases, symptoms may appear more suddenly. There is not a set timeline.
Important Considerations
Early detection is key: Early diagnosis and treatment of vulvar cancer greatly improve the chances of successful outcomes.
Follow-up care is important: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary after treatment to monitor for recurrence.
Sexual health: Vulvar cancer and its treatment can affect sexual function and intimacy. It's important to discuss these concerns with your doctor.
Psychological support: Coping with a cancer diagnosis can be challenging. Support groups and counseling can be helpful.