Vulvar Cancer
Vulvar cancer is a rare gynecologic cancer that begins in the outer part of the female genitals including the opening of the vagina, clitoris, labia majora (outer lips), labia minora (inner lips), and surrounding skin and tissue.
There are several different types of vulvar cancer including:
- Squamous cell carcinoma:
Squamous cells are one of three cell types that create the muscles, skin and nerves in the body. In this case, these are the skin cells. This is the most common form of vulvar cancer. - Adenocarcinoma:
Epithelial cells help create the glands in our body; the structures that secrete things like sweat and mucus. In this case, its the Bartholin's glands located at the vaginal opening. - Melanoma:
This form of skin cancer develops in the vulva and makes up in about 5% of all cases - Basal cell carcinoma and other cancers.
Treatment for vaginal cancer depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as other patient factors.
There are no definitive risk factors for vulvar cancer.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the following may increase the chances for developing this type of cancer cancer:
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV). This virus is connected to many forms of gynecologic cancer. Up to 9 of every 10 vaginal cancers and pre-cancers (vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia – VAIN) are linked to infection with HPV.
- Prior cervical precancer or cervical cancer.
- Have a condition that weakens your immune system (such as HIV, the virus that can lead to AIDS)
- Tobacco use
- Chronic vulvar itching or burning
Symptoms of Vulvar Cancer
- Itching, burning, or bleeding on the vulva that does not go away.
- Changes in the color of the skin of the vulva, so that it looks redder or whiter than is normal for you.
- Skin changes in the vulva, including what looks like a rash or warts.
- Sores, lumps, or ulcers on the vulva that do not go away.
- Pain in your pelvis, especially when you urinate or have sex.
Prevention and Screening
Of all the gynecologic cancers, only cervical cancer has a screening test -- the Pap test.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is available for girls and women. It is recommended for 11- and 12-year-old girls and boys. It also can be given to females who are 13 - 26 who did not get any or all of the shots when they were younger. Ideally, girls should get three doses of this vaccine before their first sexual contact that are 9 to 26 years old. The HPV vaccine protects against most types of HPV that most often cause cervical cancer, as well as vaginal and vulvar cancer.