Does vulval cancer cause vulval skin changes?

Vulval cancer can alter the colour, texture, or surface of vulval skin. A patch may become lighter, darker, thicker, scaly, ulcerated, or different from the surrounding skin. Itching, soreness, burning, bleeding, or a lump can occur alongside a visible change.

Skin conditions, irritation, infection, hormonal changes, and benign growths can produce similar findings. Looking at the area cannot establish the cause. A clinician may examine the vulva and recommend further assessment, sometimes including a small biopsy, if the appearance or persistence raises concern.

Arrange an appointment with a GP, gynaecologist, or vulval specialist for a new, persistent, or changing patch, sore, lump, or area of thickened skin. Avoid scratching and fragranced soaps until you are assessed. Do not apply steroid, antifungal, or other medicated creams repeatedly without advice, as treatment can alter the appearance and delay the right diagnosis.

Seek prompt medical advice if the area bleeds, becomes an open sore, develops a lump, causes increasing pain, or changes noticeably. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, severe pain, fever, or rapidly spreading redness and swelling.

What could be causing this skin change? Does it need examination by a specialist? Would a biopsy help identify the cause? Which products should I avoid while waiting?