What is Vulvar Cancer?

Vulvar cancer begins in the external female genitalia. It is part of a group known as gynecologic cancers and requires specialized treatment approaches.

Treatment Process

01
Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves a combination of pelvic examination, imaging tests (such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans), and biopsies.

02
Surgery

Surgical options vary depending on the type and stage of cancer. Procedures may include wide local excision (removal of tumour with adequate surrounding margin), vulvectomy (removal of the vulva), unilateral/bilateral lymphadenectomy (removal of inguinal nodes), sentinel node biopsy (removal of first draining lymph node) and other relevant procedures.

03
Radiation Therapy

Depending on the size, location and spread of tumour, radiation therapy may be given to kill remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. It may be used as primary treatment in cases where surgery is not feasible.

04
Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy may be used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.

05
Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

Research is ongoing to evaluate benefits of immunotherapy in these cancers.

06
Follow-Up Care

Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor for recurrence and manage any side effects of treatment.

Popular Questions

Symptoms usually start with itching, discolouration of vulval skin, a lump/growth in the vulva. It is usually painless until late stages. In late stages, there can be abnormal bleeding, ulceration of the lesion, foul-smelling discharge, etc.

Staging is based on the extent of cancer spread, ranging from Stage I (localized) to Stage IV (spread to distant organs).

Risk factors include HPV infection, age, and certain vulvar dermatoses like lichen sclerosus.

There is no screening program for vulvar cancer. However, being aware of one's own body, early consultation for any discoloration/itching/growth seen in the vulva can help us detect and treat it in the pre-cancer stage. Also, those with known premalignant lesions should be under strict surveillance to prevent malignant changes/treatment of malignancy at the earliest possible stage.

Prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis and the success of the initial treatment.

Research is ongoing, and new treatments and new surgical techniques are being explored.

There is no role of genetic testing in vulvar cancers.

Providing emotional support, helping with daily tasks, and accompanying them to medical appointments can be very helpful.

Common Myths

  • 1.Myth : Vulvar cancer is always caused by HPV.
    Fact: Although HPV infection is a significant risk factor, not all cases of vulvar cancer are caused by HPV. Other factors, such as chronic skin conditions and a weakened immune system, can also contribute.
  • 2.Myth : Vulvar cancer is highly contagious.
    Fact: Vulvar cancer is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person. It is a result of abnormal cell growth in the vulva.
  • 3.Myth : Vulvar cancer is always fatal.
    Fact: When detected early, vulvar cancer is highly treatable. The prognosis is generally good with appropriate treatment, which may include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
  • 4.Myth : Only women with multiple sexual partners get vulvar cancer.
    Fact: While having multiple sexual partners can increase the risk of HPV infection, which is a risk factor for vulvar cancer, women with no sexual history can also develop vulvar cancer.
  • 5.Myth : Vulvar cancer treatment always involves removing the entire vulva.
    Fact: Treatment for vulvar cancer is personalized and may involve less extensive surgery, such as removing only the affected tissue. The extent of surgery depends on the stage and spread of the cancer.

Dr. Neha Agarwal's Expertise in Kolkata

Dr. Neha Agarwal, renowned for her expertise in vulvar cancer treatment, is based in Kolkata. With a wealth of training and experience, she offers exceptional care, encompassing precise diagnoses, cutting-edge surgical procedures, and tailored treatment plans. Dr. Agarwal's empathetic approach guarantees that patients receive top-notch care and unwavering support throughout their treatment journey.

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