Early detection of vulvar cancer is crucial for effective treatment. Recognizing symptoms like persistent itching, skin changes, lumps, or unusual moles can lead to prompt medical intervention. Understanding the signs and risk factors improves prognosis and ensures timely care. Consult healthcare providers if any concerning symptoms appear to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment options.

Identifying Key Symptoms and Warning Signs of Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar cancer is a rare type of cancer that impacts the skin of the vulva, the area surrounding the external genitalia. Early detection plays a vital role in effective treatment, so recognizing the symptoms is essential. The disease’s presentation varies depending on the type of cells involved, leading to different signs. Being aware of these indicators can facilitate timely medical intervention and improve treatment outcomes.

Major Symptoms to Watch For

Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN)
Although VIN is not classified as invasive cancer, it can progress if untreated. Many women with VIN may not experience symptoms, but persistent itching is common. Changes in skin appearance may include thickening, lighter, pink, red, or darker patches. Recognizing these visual cues is important for early diagnosis.

Invasive Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Symptoms often include changes in skin color and texture, such as lighter, darker, pink, or red patches. These may be accompanied by lumps, rough bumps, or wart-like growths. Persistent itching, burning sensations, unusual bleeding unrelated to menstruation, thickened skin, and sores that do not heal are typical signs. Subtypes like verrucous carcinoma can resemble cauliflower-like growths or genital warts.

Vulvar Melanoma
Unlike other forms, melanomas may present as dark brown or black spots but can also be pink, red, or white. Symptoms include itching, pain, bleeding, and lumps. These can develop from existing moles; any sudden changes in mole size, shape, or color should prompt a doctor’s visit. Follow the ABCDE guide—Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color change, Diameter over 6mm, and Evolution—to identify suspicious moles.

Bartholin Gland Cancer
This cancer may manifest as a lump near the vaginal opening, often mistaken for a benign cyst. It develops from the glandular tissue within the Bartholin glands, with a small percentage advancing to adenocarcinoma, typically appearing on the sides of the vulva.

Paget’s Disease of the Vulva
Presented as a red, velvety patch that can turn pink, Paget’s disease is a rare skin cancer. It frequently causes soreness, itching, oozing, or bleeding, arising from glandular skin cells.

Diagnosis and Early Detection
Many symptoms of vulvar cancer resemble benign conditions, making diagnosis challenging. Consulting healthcare professionals promptly is key. They may perform physical exams, review medical history, and conduct pelvic assessments, colposcopies, and imaging tests such as scans, cystoscopy, or rectal exams to determine if the cancer has spread. Early diagnosis improves treatment chances and prognosis.