What is the Exact Cause of Vulvar Cancer ?

Cancer is a term that instill fear and anxiety in the hearts of millions across the globe. Among the myriad types of cancer, vulvar cancer remains shrouded in misconceptions and silence. Vulvar cancer is a rare cancer of your vulva. There are about 45000 cases of vulvar cancer throughout the world each year. Most cases are related to either human papillomavirus (HPV) infection or lichen sclerosis. Changes in vulvar skin colour and lumps or open sores may be signs of vulvar cancer. Vulvar cancer treatment in India includes surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.

Vulvar Cancer Treatment in India: Hope Starts with the Right Care

The vulva is the external part of the female genitalia and can be affected by a cancer known as vulvar cancer. The cancer starts in the lining of the vulva, much like epithelial cancers. Understanding what vulvar cancer is and how it affects the body is crucial for early detection and effective vulvar cancer treatment in India. It is a rare condition, but it can have a significant effect on the life and health of the person. 

Types of Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar cancer is not a single disease but a group of cancers that affect the vulvar area. The most common types of vulvar cancer include: 

Causes of Vulvar Cancer

The exact cause of vulvar cancer is unknown, but it has several risk factors : 

• Age 
• HPV
• Smoking
• Chronic Vulvar Inflammation or infection
• Weak immune system
• Having a history of precancerous vulva

Diagnosis 

The diagnosis of vulvar cancer includes: 

Biopsy: It involves the removal of sample tissue, which is examined under the microscope. 

Imaging Tests: MRI and CT scans are done to provide detailed images of the inside of the body. 

Colposcopy: During colposcopy, a magnifying device is used by vulvar cancer treatment doctors in India to get a better look at the skin cells. If the area looks suspicious, a biopsy is performed. 

Staging of Vulvar Cancer

The vulvar cancer doctors in India use the method of staging to determine how far the cancer has spread, and the staging decides which treatment option will be best to treat the cancer. 

Stage 1: The cancer is only confined to the vulva. 

Stage 2: The cancer has spread to the lower part of the vagina, urethra and anus. 

Stage 3: Cancer has spread to the upper urethra, vagina, bladder, or rectal mucosa. 

Stage 4: It is an advanced stage of vulvar cancer that has spread to distant lymph nodes or other parts of the body. 

Vulvar Cancer Treatment in India: What are your Options? 

Treatment 1: Surgery 

Vulvar cancer surgery in India is the main treatment option for vulvar cancer. Each woman's surgery must balance the need to remove all types of cancer with the importance of her ability to have a sex life. The following types of surgery can be performed to remove vulvar cancer: 

Excision: The cancer and the margin of normal healthy skin around it are removed. The thin layer of fat below it is also excised. 

Vulvectomy: In this type of vulvar cancer surgery in India, all or part of the vulva is removed: 

• A partial vulvectomy removes part of the vulva deep under the skin. 
• A complete vulvectomy removes the entire vulva and deep tissues, including the clitoris. 

Lymph Node Surgery

It is often seen that vulvar cancer spreads to lymph nodes in the groin, so these lymph nodes may need to be removed. 

Inguinal lymph node dissection

Surgery to remove lymph nodes in the groin is called an inguinal lymph node dissection. Usually, only lymph nodes on the same side as the cancer are removed. If the cancer is in or near the middle, then both sides may have to be done.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy

This procedure can help some women avoid having a complete inguinal node dissection. It's used to find and remove the lymph nodes that drain the area where the cancer is. These lymph nodes are known as sentinel lymph nodes because cancer would be expected to spread to them first

Treatment 2: Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy for vulvar cancer treatment in India uses high-energy rays and particles to kill cancer cells. It is often used along with chemotherapy and can also be used to treat advanced-stage cancers. The goal of radiation therapy is to shrink the tumor so that it can be removed via surgery. The types of radiation therapy used are : 

• 3D CRT
• IMRT

Treatment 3: Chemotherapy

Chemo uses anti-cancer drugs that are given via IV or mouth. Chemo can be given before radiation therapy or with radiation therapy. It helps radiation work better and may help to shrink the tumor. 

Treatment 4: Targeted Therapy

It is used for cancer treatment that uses medicine that attacks specific chemicals in the cancer cells. By blocking these chemicals, targeted treatments can cause cancer cells to die. 

Treatment 5: Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy for vulvar cancer treatment in India with medicine helps the body’s immune system to kill the cancer cells. 

The Multi-Faceted Treatment Approach

For many patients, a comprehensive treatment strategy that combines surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy provides the best chance for recovery. Customizing this approach to each patient’s unique needs is essential for achieving optimal outcomes.

Post-Treatment Care

Effective post-treatment care after vulvar cancer surgery in India plays a crucial role in recovery and long-term well-being. Key aspects include:

• Regular follow-ups to assess treatment effectiveness and detect any recurrence.
• Physical therapy to support healing and restore mobility after surgery.
• Emotional support through counselling, support groups, and mental health services to help patients cope with the psychological impact of their diagnosis and treatment.

Strategies to Prevent vulvar Cancer and Hope For Future

• Do not smoke tobacco as it increases the risk of vulvar cancer. 
• HPV is a common virus that is passed through sexual contact. It also increases the risk of vulvar cancer. So use a condom every time you have sex and get the HPV vaccine. 

Vulvar Cancer Treatment in Delhi: Coping and Support 

A vulvar cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but finding the right support can help.

Stay Informed

Understanding your diagnosis and treatment options can empower you to make confident decisions. Dr. Sarita Kumari, a leading gynecologic oncologist in Delhi at Max Super Specialty Hospital, can provide expert guidance on the latest treatment advancements.

Lean on Loved Ones

Family and friends can offer emotional and practical support, whether it’s accompanying you to appointments or helping at home.

Seek Emotional Support

Speaking with a counsellor, support group, or trusted friend can help you process your emotions. Your healthcare team can recommend cancer support groups for additional guidance.

Intimacy and Emotional Well-being

Changes in your body may impact intimacy. Open communication with your partner and seeking professional advice can help maintain emotional closeness.

Preparing for Your Appointment

• List symptoms and concerns.
• Note any medications or lifestyle changes.
• Bring a companion for support.
• Prepare questions for your doctor.

Best Doctor and Hospital For Vulvar Cancer Treatment in Delhi 

If diagnosed, you may be referred to a gynecologic oncologist. If you are searching for a vulvar cancer specialist near me, Dr Sarita Kumari is the best doctor for vulvar cancer treatment in India and specialized care. Early diagnosis and expert treatment at Max Super Speciality Hospital under her guidance can make a difference.