Vulvar cancer diagnosis
If your gynecologic oncologist suspects you may have vulvar cancer, they will review your health history and conduct physical exams to observe the suspected area. Your oncologist may use a colposcope, a magnifying instrument that provides a clearer view of the vulva and enables them to take a biopsy to better analyze any abnormal cells. A biopsy involves the removal of a small sample of tissue from a lesion or lump for testing, and helps the oncologist determine the presence of pre-cancerous or cancerous cells. Your oncologist might also perform a Pap test to check for other cancers in the cervix and vagina.
For patients diagnosed with vulvar cancer who are interested in having a family in the future, our fertility preservation program will assess your options for family planning.
Vulvar cancer staging
Staging is a method doctors use to assess the size, growth, and aggressiveness of a cancer. Vulvar cancer can spread into nearby areas such as the vagina and anus. Early-stage vulvar cancer can also spread to lymph nodes, though spreading to other organs is rare until the disease is more advanced. Knowing the stage of your cancer allows you to make informed decisions about your care and helps your doctors choose the most appropriate treatment options for your unique case.
Vulvar cancer is categorized into five main stages:
- Stage 0: Abnormal cells have formed in the outer layer of skin covering the vulva. This is called vulval intraepithelial neoplasia.
- Stage I: The cancer is limited to the vulva and perineum, and the tumor measures less than 2 centimeters in size.
- Stage II: The cancer is limited to the vulva and perineum, but the tumor is larger than 2 centimeters in size.
- Stage III: The cancer has spread to the vagina, urethra, anus, and/or the lymph nodes in the groin.
- Stage IV: The cancer has spread to the bladder, bowel, pelvic bone, pelvic lymph nodes, and/or other parts of the body.
Vulvar cancer is typically diagnosed at Stage I, indicating that it has not spread to other areas. If there are indications that the cancer has spread, additional tests may be performed. If you are diagnosed with vulvar cancer, our specialists will work together to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute
Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.