Vulvar melanoma early stage: what to know

The diagnosis is confirmed by examining tissue under a microscope. The report may describe the tumour’s depth, ulceration and whether its edges are clear. These details help the team understand how far the melanoma has grown locally.

Assessment can include examination of the vulva and nearby lymph nodes. A sentinel lymph node biopsy may be discussed when the tumour features make checking the first draining node useful. You can read about [Melanoma](/conditions/melanoma/) and [Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/sentinel-lymph-node-biopsy/).

Arrange review with a team experienced in vulvar and melanoma care. Treatment commonly centres on removing the lesion with an appropriate margin while protecting function as much as possible. The planned operation may be called [Surgical Excision](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/excisional-surgery/) or [Skin Cancer Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-cancer-surgery/).

Take the pathology report to appointments, list medicines and allergies, and ask how wound care, urination, movement and sexual wellbeing may be affected during healing. Do not delay review because a spot is small or not painful.

Contact a clinician promptly for a new or changing vulvar pigmented area, bleeding, an open sore, persistent pain, or a lump in the groin. After treatment, seek urgent advice for heavy bleeding, fever, spreading redness, worsening swelling or difficulty passing urine. New neurological symptoms need urgent assessment, especially in someone with a melanoma history.

Ask: What does the pathology show? Are the margins clear? Is lymph-node assessment recommended? Which operation is planned, and how will it affect healing and vulvar function? What follow-up schedule will monitor the treated area and nearby nodes?