The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Vulvar Cancer

A rare gynecologic cancer arising from the female external genitalia.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Vulvar Cancer?

Vulvar cancer accounts for 4% of gynecologic cancers and arises in the area covering the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vaginal opening; mean age at diagnosis is 65-70 years.

Squamous cell carcinoma comprises 85-90% of cases; it can develop from HPV-related vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) and lichen sclerosus. Less common types are melanoma, adenocarcinoma (Bartholin gland), and basal cell carcinoma.

Diagnosis is made by punch biopsy. Treatment is wide local excision, radical vulvectomy, sentinel lymph node biopsy, and adjuvant radio-chemotherapy. Five-year survival in early stages is 70-90%; the rate drops in advanced disease.

Symptoms

Persistent vulvar itching
Vulvar lump or ulcer
Pain or burning
Abnormal bleeding (between periods or postmenopausal)
Skin color change (white, red, pigmented)
Discharge or odor
Inguinal lymphadenopathy

Risk Factors

Persistent HPV infection (16, 18)
Smoking
Vulvar lichen sclerosus
VIN (vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia)
Postmenopausal age
HIV / immunosuppression
Chronic granulomatous diseases

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Itching lasting more than 6 weeks
  • Persistent vulvar mass or ulcer
  • Postmenopausal bleeding
  • Skin color or texture change
  • Inguinal swelling

Treatment Methods

01
Diagnosis with punch biopsy
02
Wide local excision (in early stage)
03
Radical vulvectomy (in advanced stage)
04
Sentinel lymph node biopsy
05
Inguinofemoral lymph node dissection
06
Adjuvant radio-chemotherapy
07
Long-term follow-up and HPV vaccination

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Regular Gynecological Check-up

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Regular gynecological check-ups enable early diagnosis of many women's diseases and increase treatment success. It is recommended that every sexually active woman or woman over 21 see a gynecologist at least once a year.

Cervical Cancer

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Cervical cancer develops from uncontrolled growth of cells in the cervix and is among the most common women's cancers worldwide. Precancerous lesions can be recognized with regular Pap smear and HPV testing.

HPV and Vaccination

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

HPV is a common virus transmitted sexually that can lead to certain types of cancer. Vaccination provides over 90% protection against high-risk HPV strains.

Ovarian Cyst

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in or on the ovarian tissue. Most are asymptomatic and disappear spontaneously; however, large or complex cysts can cause pain and complications.

Endometriosis

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Endometriosis affects about 10% of women of reproductive age, causing cyclic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and infertility; combined medical and laparoscopic treatment improves quality of life.

Uterine Fibroids

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors developing from the uterine muscle layer. They affect 20-50% of women of reproductive age; most are asymptomatic, but can cause bleeding and pain.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

PCOS is the most common endocrine disease affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age, characterized by androgen excess, ovulation disorder, and polycystic ovarian appearance.

Menopause

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Menopause is the life stage defined by not having a period for 12 consecutive months and the natural cessation of ovarian function. The average age is 51, but it can vary between 45-55 years.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.