Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar cancer starts in cells of the vulva, the external genital area. It can develop on the labia, clitoris, or nearby skin. Different tumour types behave differently, so the exact cell type and extent of disease guide care.

Vulvar cancer is a cancer of the vulva that may cause persistent itching, skin changes, bleeding, or a new lump.

A new lump or swelling is a common presentation of vulvar cancer. Persistent itching is a very common presentation. Other possible changes include a sore that does not heal, a patch of skin that becomes thicker or changes colour, burning, pain, bleeding unrelated to a period, or discharge.

These changes can also result from infections, irritation, or non-cancerous skin conditions. Arrange an assessment for a change that persists, returns, or is difficult to explain; examination is needed to identify the cause.

Cancer begins when cells acquire changes that make them grow or survive in an uncontrolled way. In some vulvar cancers, high-risk human papillomavirus, or HPV, is involved. Other cancers develop through a different pathway and may occur alongside long-standing inflammatory vulvar skin disease.

There is no single cause that explains every case. A clinician uses the examination and biopsy findings to identify the tumour type rather than relying on symptoms alone.

The condition may begin as a local skin or mucosal change. It can extend into nearby tissue and may involve groin lymph nodes. Further spread is possible, but the outlook and treatment plan depend on tumour size, location, cell type, depth, and whether lymph nodes or distant areas are involved.

Risk is associated with persistent infection by certain HPV types, smoking, a weakened immune system, and some chronic vulvar skin conditions. Risk also rises with age, although vulvar cancer can occur outside the age group in which it is most often diagnosed.

Having a risk factor does not mean cancer will develop, and people without an obvious risk factor can still be diagnosed. HPV vaccination and regular attention to lasting vulvar changes can support prevention and earlier assessment.

Diagnosis usually starts with questions about the change and a careful examination of the vulva and groin. A biopsy removes a small sample of tissue for laboratory examination; this is the step that confirms whether cancer is present and identifies its type.

If cancer is confirmed, imaging may be used to assess nearby tissues, lymph nodes, or other areas. Your care team may discuss the findings in a specialist meeting before recommending treatment.

Treatment is tailored to the tumour's position, size, depth, cell type, and spread, as well as your general health and preferences. Surgery may remove the tumour with a margin of surrounding tissue and may include assessment or removal of nearby lymph nodes.

Radiotherapy uses focused radiation to damage cancer cells. It may be used after surgery, instead of surgery in selected situations, or to treat disease that cannot be removed safely. Some patients receive more than one treatment approach. Ask what each option aims to achieve and how it may affect comfort, sexual wellbeing, urination, and healing.

Recovery may involve wound care, changes in sensation, and support with movement or urination. Treatment can affect body image and sexual wellbeing; these concerns are legitimate parts of care. A nurse, physiotherapist, sexual-health clinician, or counsellor can offer practical support.

Possible problems include pain, wound-healing difficulties, lymphoedema after lymph-node treatment, urinary or sexual changes, and emotional distress. Report worsening pain, fever, increasing redness, new swelling, or discharge from a wound to your care team promptly.

HPV vaccination can reduce the risk from HPV-related disease. Avoiding tobacco supports vulvar and general health. Do not ignore a lasting itch, sore, lump, bleeding, or skin change; early examination can clarify whether it is irritation, a skin condition, or something requiring further tests.

Look for a gynaecological oncology team with access to pathology, imaging, surgery, radiotherapy, and supportive services. Bring a list of symptoms, medicines, previous biopsies, and questions about fertility, sexual wellbeing, recovery, and follow-up.