Malignant Neoplasm of Vulva - Understanding the Basics
Malignant neoplasm of vulva, commonly known as vulvar cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the external genitalia of women. It is a rare type of cancer and accounts for less than 1% of all cancers in women. However, early detection and treatment can significantly increase the chances of complete recovery.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of vulvar cancer is not known, but some factors can increase the risk of developing this cancer. These factors include:
- Age: Vulvar cancer is most common in women over the age of 50.
- HPV infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection can increase the risk of vulvar cancer.
- Smoking: Women who smoke are more likely to develop vulvar cancer than non-smokers.
- Chronic skin conditions: Women with chronic skin conditions, such as lichen sclerosus, may have an increased risk of vulvar cancer.
- History of vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN): Women with a history of VIN are at an increased risk of developing vulvar cancer.
Symptoms
Early-stage vulvar cancer may not cause any symptoms, but as the cancer grows, the following symptoms may appear:
- A lump or mass in the vulva
- Pain or discomfort in the vulva
- Bleeding or discharge from the vulva
- Itching or burning in the vulva
- Changes in the color or texture of the vulvar skin
Treatment
The treatment of vulvar cancer depends on the stage and location of the cancer. The following treatments may be used:
- Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for vulvar cancer. The surgeon may remove a part of the vulva or the entire vulva to remove the cancer.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with surgery.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery.
Conclusion
Malignant neoplasm of vulva is a rare type of cancer that affects the external genitalia of women. It can be caused by various factors, and early detection and treatment can increase the chances of complete recovery. If you experience any symptoms of