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Vulvar Cancer Vulvar cancer appears as an abnormal area of skin or a lump on the vulva. This is a very rare cancer accounting for 3-5 % of gynecologic cancers. It is more common in smokers and in women over the age of 60. Symptoms and Diagnosis Itching, discomfort, and bleeding to an area on the vulva are usually the first symptoms of a problem. Sometimes a tumor or ulcer is noticed by the woman, which then causes her to check with her doctor or nurse practitioner. A delay in seeking help due to embarrassment or in hopes the area will "go away by itself", can result in a tumor growing to the point where it requires extensive surgery and has less of a chance for cure. If an unusual area or a new symptom, such as itching or pain, does not go away in a week or two, it is best to seek medical help sooner, rather than later. Pre-cancerous areas on the vulva, like pre-cancerous areas on the cervix, are much easier to treat and remove than a cancer that has been allowed to grow and spread. A biopsy (small sample of tissue) is taken to diagnose vulvar cancer. This is especially important as women can be treated over a long period of time with creams and ointments to the area, without an actual tissue diagnosis, which can delay needed treatment. A biopsy should always be considered for large areas of abnormality or if the abnormal area or symptoms do not go away after a couple of weeks of treatment with creams or medications. This is a very curable cancer if caught early, so a monthly self-examination of the external genitals is recommended. Depending on the extent of the disease, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be needed after surgery. |
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