What should you know about malignant melanoma of the vulva?

Malignant melanoma of the vulva is an uncommon cancer arising from pigment-producing cells in vulval skin or mucosa. It may look like a dark or uneven patch, lump or sore, but colour alone cannot establish the diagnosis. Examination and a biopsy are the usual route to clarity.

A clinician may ask about changes in colour, shape, bleeding, itching, pain or a sore that does not heal. The pathology report identifies melanoma and describes features such as depth and whether the edges of the removed tissue are clear. Examination of nearby groin nodes and imaging may be considered according to the findings.

Treatment often centres on surgical removal with attention to vulval function, comfort and wound healing. Depending on the extent and staging, the team may discuss lymph-node evaluation, further surgery, follow-up surveillance or systemic treatment.

Book an appointment with a gynaecologist, dermatologist or cancer specialist familiar with vulval lesions. Take note of when the change began and whether it has altered. Avoid self-treating a suspicious mark with creams or attempting to remove it. Ask how the biopsy will be performed, what recovery may involve and whether a specialist nurse or pelvic-floor support is available.

Keep the biopsy and operation reports together. Follow-up appointments help the team inspect the treated area and assess lymph nodes or other concerns over time.

Arrange prompt assessment for a new or changing dark vulval mark, a firm lump, persistent itch, bleeding, discharge, pain or an ulcer that does not heal. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, rapidly increasing swelling, fever with worsening wound pain or inability to pass urine. These symptoms have several possible causes, but they should not be ignored.

Ask what the pathology shows, whether the lesion has clear margins, if groin-node assessment is recommended, how surgery may affect comfort and sexual function, and what follow-up schedule fits your result.