|
Q:
What Are the Most Common vulvar cancer Symptoms?
A: vulvar cancer, a rare cancer of the female reproductive tract, can cause a number of different symptoms. The most common vulvar cancer symptoms are visible changes to the vulva itself, including the development of lesions in the overlying skin. Growth of the cancer into surrounding structures can cause problems with urination or sexual intercourse. Spread of the disease to distant parts of the body is rare, but can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath or forgetfulness.. One of the most common vulvar cancer symptoms is developing abnormalities in the appearance of the vulva; these skin...
|
|
|
Q:
What is vulvar cancer?
A: vulvar cancer is a rare form of gynecological cancer. It forms in the outer area of the female genitals called the vulva. Most vulvar cancers are a type skin cancer that takes a long time to develop. Occasionally this type of cancer can begin as a melanoma. Identifying vulvar cancer early increases a woman''s chances of a cure. So, having gynecologic exams on a regular basis is important....
|
|
|
Q:
What are the causes of vulvar cancer?
A: Although the cause of vulvar cancer is unknown, studies have identified several risk factors for vulvar cancer. These include: vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN)......
|
|
|
Q:
How does vulvar cancer begin?
A: vulvar cancer begins when malignant cells grow in the vagina lips, clitoris, and the skin surrounding the vagina. vulvar cancer can develop over many years; this phase is called vulvar intraepithelial neplasia (VIN) or dysplasia. Symptoms of this disease are not usually noticeable, which is why it''s very important for women to get a yearly pap smear. However, some women do experience some symptoms and they can include:...
|
|
|
Q:
What prevention methods are there to avoid vulvar cancer?
A: ... to reduce the risk of vulvar cancer, women should not smoke and should refrain from engaging in unsafe sexual behavior. Good hygiene of the genital area to prevent infection and inflammation may also reduce the risk of vulvar cancer....
|
|
|
Q:
How is vulvar cancer diagnosed?
A: To diagnose possible vulvar cancer, your doctor would first perform a physical exam to look for signs of the disorder. Your doctor may also ask questions about your health history and any recent conditions or symptoms. If your doctor thinks it is necessary, you might be given a biopsy on tissue or cells taken from your vulva. Then a specialist would examine the sample for signs of vulvar cancer....
|
|
|
Q:
What are the symptoms of vulvar cancer?
A: Symptoms of vulvar cancer may include a lump or sore in the vulva area, and burning, pain, or tenderness. Bleeding that is not due menstruation and persistent itching are other possible symptoms. You should also be aware of changes in the skin color or thickness of your vulva as well. Recognizing these symptoms early on gives you a better chance of identifying this type of cancer before it progresses....
|
|
|
Q:
What treatment team is needed for patients with vulvar cancer?
A: The treatment team for vulvar cancer may include a gynecologist, gynecologic oncologist, radiation oncolo-gist, gynecologic nurse oncologist, sexual therapist, psychiatrist, psychological counselor, and social worker....
|
|
|
Q:
You need an answer on vulvar cancer!
A: Dear Reader, vulvar cancer is a neglected health topic, in part because it is very rare (accounting for less than 1 percent of all cancers occurring in women). Of all of the questions asked here since 1993, no one has inquired about this subject yet. Thank you for the opportunity to respond. Education about vulvar cancer is important because early detection dramatically improves a woman`s chances of survival. When vulvar cancer is detected in its early stages, before it has spread to the lymph nodes, the five-year survival rate is 90 percent. This number drops to 50 to 70 percent when the
|
|
|
Q:
What kind of support is available for women with vulvar cancer?
A: Support to help you with vulvar cancer is available in many different forms. You can turn to your partner, friends or family, a therapist, church groups, online communities, or cancer support groups. The most important thing is to have someone to turn to so you get the support you need. Many women with vulvar cancer have found cancer support groups to be a great source of strength. You can search for support groups in your community by contacting the American cancer Society, which has lists of resources on its website....
|
|