Overview
Vulvar cancer is uncommon and mostly affects older women. Early treatment gives the best results.
Symptoms
- Persistent itching of the vulva
- A lump, sore or wart-like growth
- Thickened, raised, red or white patches of skin
- Pain, burning or bleeding
- A change in a mole on the vulva
Causes and risk factors
Risk factors include older age, HPV infection, smoking, lichen sclerosus and vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN).
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made by examination and biopsy. Scans check for spread.
Treatment
Treatment includes surgery, sometimes with removal of lymph nodes, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
When to see a doctor
See a gynaecologist for persistent vulvar itching, a lump, sore or skin change that does not heal.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
