Vulval cancer (Complete) Flashcards
(15 cards)
Define vulval cancer
Malginant growth affecting the skin of the vulva
Surface layer of vulva is composed of what type of epithelial cells?
Squamous cell epithelium
What are the main types of vulval cancer?
Squamous cell carcinoma
Clear cell adenocarcinoma
Primary vaginal carcinoma
What is the most common type of vulval cancer?
Squamous cell carcinoma
Which type of vulval cancer is more common in teenagers?
Clear cell adenocarcinoma
Prior to discontinuation, what drug was associated with increased risk of clear cell adenocarcinoma?
Diethylstilbestrol
Which type of vulval cancers more commonly occur in older women?
Primary vulval carcinoma
Vulval cancer is most common in which age groups?
> 60 years of age
What are the main risk factors for vulval cancer? (4)
HPV
Vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN)
Lichen sclerosus
Immunosuppresion
What are the main characteristics of vulval cancer?
Vaginal itching and discomfort
Vaginal lump or non-healing ulcer on labora majora
Lymphadenopathy
Vulval pain
Bleeding or discharge not related to menstrual cycle
What differentials should be considered alongside vulval cancer?
Vulval intraeptihelial lesions
Lichen sclerosis
Bartholin’s cyst
What investigations should be considered for patient with suspected vulval cancer?
Bedside:
Vulval examination
Imaging/invasive:
Biopsy: To confirm diagnosis
CT chest, abdomen, pelvis: To check for metastases
What is the management plan for patients with early-stage (Stage 1a) vulval cancer?
Wide local excision
What is the management plan for patients with advanced vulval cancer?
Radical vulvectomy and bilateral inguinal lymphadenectomy.
may also benefit from neoadjuvant chemotherapy
What is the management plan for patients who cannot tolerate surgical management?
Radiotherapy
