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Best Doctors For Vulvar Cancer Treatment in Kolkata

Vulvar Cancer

Best Doctors For Vulvar Cancer Treatment in Kolkata

Vulvar cancer is a rare cancer that forms when abnormal cells form or grow on the outer surface of the vulva. The vulva includes several parts of the female genitalia, which is the skin that surrounds the urethra and vagina, including the labia and clitoris. This type of cancer mostly affects older women but can develop at any age. Vulvar cancer generally forms as a sore or lump on the vulva that causes symptoms like itching, burning, or pain on the vulva. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a common risk factor that increases a woman’s chance of developing this cancer. The diagnosis of this type of cancer is generally done using a biopsy and a combination of tests to determine the extent and stage of vulvar cancer. 

Surgery is generally the first line of treatment for vulvar cancer. The earlier it gets diagnosed, the less likely it is to need extensive surgery. Surgery involves removing part or all of the vulva (Vulvectomy), nearby lymph nodes, and possibly the lower part of the vagina. In more advanced cases, treatment includes a combination of Surgery with Radiation Therapy, Chemotherapy, or Targeted therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells. Manipal Hospitals, Dhakuria, is a centre of excellence in offering treatment for all types of cancer, including vulvar cancer, using cutting-edge technologies and a calibre of skilled oncologists, striving to provide personalised treatment with ongoing cancer support. We understand that early detection and treatment can significantly improve treatment outcomes, so we educate women to seek medical attention promptly if they experience any symptoms or notice any changes in the vulva. Regular pelvic exams and screenings can also help with the early detection and prevention of vulvar cancer. If you are looking for the best Hospital For Vulvar Cancer Treatment In Dhakuria, you need to visit Manipal Hospitals. 

Experience world-class healthcare at Manipal Hospitals. Our expert team of doctors and state-of-the-art facilities ensure personalized and advanced treatments. Take the first step towards wellness. Book an appointment today.

FAQ's

Based on the type of cell where vulvar cancer begins, it is classified into many types. This information helps the doctor decide the most effective treatment. The common types of vulvar cancer are:

  • Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma: 90% of vulvar cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, in which the cancer begins at the cells on the surface of the skin.

  • Vulvar melanoma: This consists of approximately 5% of the cases and begins in the pigment-producing cells on the skin of the vulva. This form of cancer has a high risk of spreading and develops rapidly. 

There are also some rare vulvar cancers, including sarcoma, Paget disease of the vulva, Bartholin gland adenocarcinoma, verrucous carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma.
 

This cancer can form anywhere on the vulva, and there can be various signs and symptoms that you can notice. The symptoms also vary depending on the type of cancer and its location. Its common symptoms are:

  • Colour changes in the vulva 

  • An open sore that does not heal

  • Rough or thickened skin patches

  • Noticeable lump on its surface

  • Pain on the outside of the vagina

  • Discolouration of the skin (labia majora or labia minora)

  • An itching or burning sensation that does not improve

  • Unusual bleeding or discharge

  • Pain during sex or peeing

If you notice any of these symptoms, seek an early diagnosis from our experienced oncologists.
 

Although the exact cause of vulvar cancer is still unknown, many factors increase your risk of developing it. These are:

  • Ageing (above 65 years)

  • Smoking

  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection

  • Weak immune system

  • Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (history of precancerous conditions of the vulva)

  • Lichen sclerosus (a chronic skin condition involving the vulva)

  • Melanoma

  • Other genital cancers

Regular screening and wellness exams can help in the early detection of this cancer. Other diagnostic tests used for its confirmation and to know the extent of the cancer are: 

  • Pelvic exam

  • Pap smear

  • Biopsy

  • Imaging tests (CT scans, MRI scans, or positron emission tomography (PET scans))

  • Colposcopy

  • Scope exams (cystoscopy, proctoscopy)

  • Sentinel Node Biopsy

Knowing the stage of vulvar cancer helps in understanding whether the cancer has spread beyond the vulva and also guides the treatment decision. There are four stages:

  • Stage I: It is an early-stage cancer in which the cancer is confined to the vulva or perineum. It has two subtypes based on the tumour size and how far it has spread.

  • Stage II: In this stage, the tumour reaches the lower part of the vagina, anus, or urethra.

  • Stage III: The cancer has spread to one or more nearby lymph nodes at this stage, which further has three subtypes based on the size and number of the lymph nodes.

  • Stage IV: The cancer spreads to the upper part of the vagina, urethra, or other body parts. It is the most advanced stage, and there are two further subtypes. 

Various treatment options are available, along with Surgery, which is the most common treatment for this cancer.

  • Surgery: Various types of surgeries are available to treat vulvar cancer. These include Laser Surgery, Local Excision, Vulvectomy, and Pelvic Exenteration.

  • Radiation Therapy: X-rays or high-energy beams are used to kill cancer cells. External Beam Radiation Therapy is mostly used for vulvar cancer treatment.

  • Chemotherapy: In this treatment approach, drugs are used to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Cisplatin and fluorouracil are the two most commonly used drugs for this cancer. 

  • Immunotherapy: Imiquimod cream is a common medication used for this cancer that helps the immune system identify and fight cancer cells.

Vulvar cancer develops slowly but can be life-threatening if left untreated. The treatment becomes challenging when it spreads to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body. Vulvar cancer can return after treatment, so detecting and treating it in its early stages helps you remain cancer-free.
 

After the treatment of vulvar cancer, it's important to visit the doctor for periodic follow-up exams to look for a cancer recurrence. Even after successful treatment, vulvar cancer can return. The best follow-up examination schedule for you will be decided by your doctor, but for the first two years following vulvar cancer treatment, experts often advise exams two to four times a year. 
 

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