Vulvar cancer is rare and originates in the tissues of the vulva, typically forming a lump that frequently causes itching. Its prevalence is usually noticed in older females. Two most common types include - vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (amounting to almost 90% of cases) and vulvar melanoma.
Common symptoms include:
- Bleeding
- Itching in the vulvar region
- Skin discoloration, becoming white or red
- Skin breaks or sores
- Wart-like growth near the vulva
- Pain or tenderness in the region
- Ulcers
Like most cancers, its origin is not clear what causes vulvar cancer but there are some risk factors that may increase the risk.
Risk factors include:
- Being exposed to HPV
- Smoking tobacco
- Older age (avg age of diagnosis - 65)
- Weak immunity
- A history of precancerous condition of the vulva
- Previous skin condition involving the vulva
Some treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
Why Zydus
Zydus Cancer Hospital, one of the leading cancer hospitals in Gujarat, takes a multidisciplinary approach which involves inputs from gynecologic oncologist, medical oncologist, and radiation oncologists.
