Cancer of the Vulva: A Review

Area of Science:

• Gynecologic Oncology
• Dermatopathology
• Oncology

Background:

• Vulvar cancers, though uncommon, represent a growing concern for women's health.
• In 2019, vulvar cancer constituted 0.3% of new cancer diagnoses in the U.S., with 6,070 cases.
• This review comprehensively examines the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, staging, and treatment of vulvar malignancies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review distinct vulvar cancer entities, including vulvar intraepithelial neoplasms (VIN) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
• To discuss malignant melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, neuroendocrine tumors, and adenocarcinomas affecting the vulva.
• To provide an overview of the current understanding of vulvar malignancies.

Main Methods:

• A literature review was conducted using PubMed.
• Search terms focused on "cancer of the vulva" and related terms.
• Articles were selected for their relevance to vulvar cancer epidemiology, diagnosis, staging, and treatment.

Main Results:

• Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasms are premalignant precursors to vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
• SCC treatment varies based on tumor characteristics and lymph node status; melanoma staging relies on tumor, node, and metastasis (TNM) spread.
• Histopathologic subtypes of SCC and melanoma require specific diagnostic and staging approaches.

Conclusions:

• Vulvar malignancies necessitate biopsy and pathological evaluation for accurate diagnosis.
• Treatment strategies range from surgical excision and lymph node assessment to radiation and immunotherapy, tailored to histopathology.
• Patient outcomes for vulvar cancers are contingent upon the specific diagnosis and treatment efficacy.