Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar cancer is a type of cancer that occurs on the vulva, which is the external part of the female genitalia, including the labia (the folds of skin around the vaginal opening), the clitoris, the vaginal opening, and the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus). Vulvar cancer develops when abnormal cells in the vulvar skin grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. It is a rare cancer, and it most often affects older women, typically over the age of 60.

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Symptoms

Vulvar cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. As it progresses, common signs include persistent itching, pain, or burning in the vulvar area. Women may notice lumps, growths, or sores, often hard or raised, similar to warts or ulcers. Unusual bleeding or discharge, especially after sex, and changes in vulvar skin appearance (thickening, color changes, dark patches) may also occur. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

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Risk Factors

Vulvar cancer risk factors include HPV infection, especially high-risk strains like HPV 16 and 18, which can cause cell changes leading to cancer. Older age, particularly postmenopausal women, increases the risk. Chronic conditions like lichen sclerosus, smoking, and a weakened immune system (e.g., HIV or immunosuppressive drugs) also contribute. Women with a history of vulvar or cervical cancer are at higher risk due to the possibility of cancer spreading from one area to another.

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Subtypes of

Vulvar Cancer

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (vulvar)
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Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of vulvar cancer, accounting for about 90% of all vulvar cancer cases. This type originates in the squamous cells, which are thin, flat cells that make up the skin of the vulva.

Subtypes:

  • Basaloid Squamous Cell Carcinoma
  • Warty (verrucous) carcinoma
  • Basaloid carcinoma
  • Keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma
  • Verrucous carcinoma
Vulvar melanoma
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Vulvar melanoma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that originates from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells found in the vulvar skin. This cancer often appears as a dark, irregularly shaped mole or lesion. Vulvar melanoma is typically diagnosed at a later stage and can be difficult to treat due to its rapid growth and tendency to metastasize.

Subtypes:

  • Superficial Spreading Melanoma
  • Nodular Melanoma
  • Lentigo Melanoma
Adenocarcinoma of the vulva
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Adenocarcinoma of the vulva is a rare type of cancer that originates in the glandular cells, such as the sweat glands or mucous glands in the vulva. This cancer is associated with conditions such as clear cell carcinoma, which may occur in women who were exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) while in the womb. This subtype can also arise from other mucosal glands or sweat glands.

Subtypes:

  • Bartholin’s Gland Adenocarcinoma
  • Vaginal Adenocarcinoma
Basal Cell Carcinoma (vulvar)
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Basal cell carcinoma is a rare type of vulvar cancer that arises from the basal cells in the skin, which are located beneath the squamous cells. It is usually a slow-growing cancer and is typically less aggressive than other forms. BCC in the vulva is more common in women with a history of sun exposure, as it is typically associated with skin cancer.

Other Rare Vulvar Subtypes
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While the above cancers are the most commonly diagnosed vulvar cancers, there are other rare types, including lymphomas, sarcomas, Merkel Cell carcinoma, and neuroendocrine tumors.

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Disclaimer: This list provides a comprehensive overview of some of the most common cancerous solid tumors, including theirtypes, subtypes, symptoms and risk factors. However, it is important to note that this list may not capture everypossible tumor type and subtype within this category. Cancer research is continually evolving, and new types andsubtypes may emerge over time. For a complete and personalized understanding of a cancer type or sub-type,individuals should consult medical professionals or oncologists. This information is intended for educationalpurposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis.