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Vulvar cancer is a rare type of gynaecological cancer that occurs when abnormal cells grow in the vulva tissues. Vulva is a term used for the external female genitals. Vulvar cancer usually develops on the inner (labia minora) and outer (labia majora) lips of the vulva and the perineum (skin between the vagina and the anus). The cancer develops as a sore or lump on the vulva.
At Manipal Hospitals, our team of top gynaec oncologists offers the best vulvar cancer treatment in EM Bypass, Kolkata. We encourage early detection and screening for better treatment outcomes.
What are the symptoms of vulvar cancer?
As this cancer occurs in different areas of the vulva, the symptoms will vary based on the type and location of the cancer. The common symptoms include:
Soreness or pain in the vulva
Itching and burning in the vulva
Noticeable lump, sore or wart-like growth on its surface
Skin discolouration in the labia majora or labia minora
Skin patches or colour changes in the vulva
Hard or swollen lymph nodes in the groin
Pain on the outside of the vagina
Unusual bleeding, pus or discharge
Pain during sex or peeing
Seek an early diagnosis from our experienced oncologists to ensure effective gynecologic oncology treatment in EM Bypass, Kolkata.
What causes vulvar cancer?
The exact cause of vulvar cancer is not known, but genetic mutations in DNA are believed to play a role in its development. However, vulvar squamous cell carcinoma, which is the most common type of vulvar cancer, can occur due to one of the two conditions. These include human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, a commonly sexually transmitted infection and lichen sclerosis, a chronic skin condition.
How is vulvar cancer diagnosed?
Our oncologist will review your medical and family history. Enquire about the risk factors and symptoms. The doctor will then perform a pelvic exam to inspect your vulva for any skin changes. We may recommend a Pap smear and an HPV test. To check the spread of cancer, imaging tests like CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans are performed. A Colposcopy or a Biopsy may be done for confirmation.
How is vulvar cancer treated?
The vulvar cancer treatment in EM Bypass, Kolkata, will be determined based on your overall health, stage and location of cancer. These include:
Surgery: The surgery is usually done to remove the cancerous cells, thereby preserving your sexual function. These include Laser Surgery, Local Excision, Vulvectomy, and Pelvic Exenteration.
Radiation Therapy: This treatment uses X-rays or other high-energy sources to kill cancer cells. External Beam Radiation Therapy is usually used. Also, a combination of Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy may be used.
Chemotherapy: In this treatment, the drugs are used to attack cancer cells present throughout the body. The two most commonly used drugs for this cancer are cisplatin and fluorouracil.
Immunotherapy: Imiquimod cream is a common medication used for this cancer that boosts the immune system to identify and fight cancer cells.
Early detection is crucial for the success of any gynecologic oncology treatment in EM Bypass, Kolkata. Thus, our team at Manipal Hospitals encourages early screening and precise cancer diagnosis for better cancer treatment.
Yes, vulvar cancer can become life-threatening if not detected and treated on time. It can spread to other body parts, making its treatment difficult. However, the cancer can also recur after treatment. However the cancer detected in the early stage has shown better survival rates. Our oncologists at EM Bypass employ the latest treatment methods to offer the best results, helping you live a cancer-free life.
Vulvar cancer is of many types, depending on the cells from which it originates. The most common ones are vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (90%) and vulvar melanoma (5%). Some rare types of vulvar cancers are Bartholin gland adenocarcinoma, Paget's disease of the vulva, basal cell carcinoma, sarcoma, and verrucous carcinoma.
Vulvar cancer often develops slowly over several years without noticeable symptoms. Some types, like squamous cell carcinoma, grow gradually before spreading, whereas melanoma types tend to spread more quickly.
Any woman can get vulvar cancer. However, certain factors increase your risk of developing this cancer. These include growing age, smoking, exposure to HPV and sexually transmitted infections. Also, skin conditions involving the vulva and vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (a precancerous condition) increase your risk.
There is no foolproof way to prevent yourself from getting vulvar cancer. The risk can be reduced by getting HPV vaccination, and scheduling regular checkups and physical examinations with our gynaecologist. If you detect any symptoms, seek help immediately.
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