Vulvar carcinoma
Vulvar cancer is a rare but serious disease that should be detected and treated at an early stage. Regular gynecological check-ups and vaccination against HPV can significantly reduce the risk. If vulvar cancer is suspected, a doctor should be consulted immediately so that an accurate diagnosis and treatment can be initiated.
Vulvar cancer (vulvar carcinoma, also known colloquially as vulvar cancer) is a rare cancer of the external female genital organs. This type of cancer mainly affects the external genital area, e.g. labia, clitoris, urethral orifice, but can also affect the perineum or vaginal entrance. Vulvar cancer usually occurs after the menopause, but can also develop in younger women.
The exact causes of vulvar cancer are largely unknown. Chronic skin and mucous membrane diseases of the external genital organs, such as lichen sclerosus, favor the development of vulvar cancer. Another risk factor is a persistent infection with certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Other sexually transmitted infections such as herpes or chlamydia can also increase the risk.
Vulvar cancer can manifest itself through various symptoms, including
In the early stages, the symptoms are often unspecific, which makes diagnosis difficult. In advanced stages, the symptoms can become more pronounced and distressing.
An important step in the prevention of vulvar cancer is vaccination against HPV. This vaccination protects against the HPV types that are most frequently associated with the development of vulvar cancer. Regular gynecological check-ups help to detect and treat changes at an early stage.
Vulvar cancer is diagnosed by means of a gynecological examination. The doctor can detect suspicious skin changes or ulcers. The following methods can be used for further clarification:
The treatment of vulvar cancer depends on the stage of the disease and the patient’s general state of health. In our specialized center for gynaecological cancers, we create an individual treatment plan for each patient to ensure the best possible treatment.
Vulvar cancer is usually treated surgically, with the aim of removing the tumor as completely as possible while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. The type and extent of the operation depend on the stage and spread of the tumor. We attach great importance to restoring the shape of the vulva using reconstructive surgical procedures, if necessary also in collaboration with the plastic surgery department at the USZ. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy can be used in addition to or as an alternative to surgery, especially if surgery is not possible, the tumor is very large or lymph nodes are already affected.
The prognosis of vulvar cancer depends heavily on the time of diagnosis and the stage of the disease. At an early stage, the chances of recovery are very good. With advanced vulvar cancer, however, the prognosis can be less favorable. Regular gynecological examinations are therefore crucial in order to detect the disease at an early stage and treat it successfully.
The Department of Gynaecology at the USZ is one of twelve Swiss hospitals on the list for highly specialized medicine (HSM list) for the treatment of vulvar cancer. At our clinic, you will be looked after by an interdisciplinary team that has the necessary experience to perform complex gynecological treatments at the highest level of quality.
