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This page was last updated: August 25, 2009
HPV can be insidious because usually there are no symptoms . The virus can produce cell changes called dysplasia, more specifically in this case VIN (vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia) which if untreated can develop into cancer. Symptoms which are associated with vulvar cancer are intense itching, burning, and burning with urination. The skin may feel rough or appear white. Symptoms may also include bleeding or discharge not associated with the menstrual cycle. If an open sore persists for more than a month, this can also be another sign. It is important to have an examination of the external genitalia with every annual pap test, and to check the area yourself in between visits. While this has previously been more common in women over 40, it is becoming more common in women under 40.
Risk factors include a history of HPV, an increased number of sexual partners since this can increase your chances of contracting the virus, lack of regular Pap smears and visual exams, smoking, and a history of HIV/AIDS. History of HPV in other areas such as the cervix.
According to SEER, Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results, there will be just under 3,600 cases of vulvar cancer in 2009 with approximately 900 deaths. 25% or 1 in 395 women will be diagnosed with vulvar cancer at some point in her life. The most common type of vulvar cancer is squamous cell. The vulva is comprised of the labia minora, labia majora lower portion of the vagina, and clitoris.
In 61% of patients diagnosis is made while the cancer is still localized, while 28% are diagnosed after the lymph nodes have become involved. Only 5% of vulvar cancers are diagnosed after it has progressed to involve metastases to distant organs. If treated early, while still localized, there is a 90.3% survival rate at five years. Both high risk and low risk strains of HPV can cause lesions on the vulva. Diagnosis is confirmed by obtaining a tissue biopsy.
Vulvar cancer can be treated utilizing various methods. Surgery either through excision or laser surgery. A surgical vulvectomy can also be performed. There are various types of vulvectomy depending upon the extent of tissue to be removed. External beam radiation therapy along with chemotherapy may be used in more advanced cases of vulvar cancer.
