Vulvar cancer refers to a rare but serious type of gynecological cancer which affect the external part of the female genitalia. It often goes unnoticed in its early stages due to symptoms, making early detection and timely treatment crucial for a positive prognosis. In India, awareness regarding vulva cancer is gradually increasing and continuous advancements in healthcare is leading to more comprehensive and effective treatment option.

This blog explores the current landscape of vulvar cancer treatment in India, highlighting the availability of specialized healthcare providers and the holistic support systems. Whether you’re seeking information on treatment options or looking for the best cancer hospitals, this blog aims to provide comprehensive insights on vulvar cancer treatment in India.

What is Vulvar Cancer?

Vulvar cancer is a type of cancer that affects the outer parts of a women’s genital area, called vulvar. The vulva includes part like the opening of the vagina, the larger outer lips (labia, majora), and the smaller inner lips (labia, minora), and the clitoris. While vulvar cancer can occur at any age, it is more commonly diagnosed in older women.

Types of Vulvar Cancer

The vulvar cancer treatment depends on the type of cell where the cancer starts. The most common types are:

Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma: This is the most common type, making up about 90% of vulvar cancer cases. It typically develops in the inner and outer folds of the vulva.

Adenocarcinoma:  This type begins in the Bartholin glands which are located near the vaginal opening and produce mucus for lubrication. It accounts for about 8% of vulvar cancer cases. other form include melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and sarcoma, though  these are less common.

What are the Symptoms of Vulvar Cancer ?

Here are some common signs of vulvar cancer :

• Itching and burning in the vulva that doesn’t go away.
• Skin changes on the vulva, like redder or whiter patches or thickened area of skin.
• Lumps or sores on the vulva that don’t heel.
• Unusual bleeding that is not related to menstruation.

Causes of  Vulvar cancer

The exact cause of vulvar cancer is still unknown. However, it generally starts when a cell in the vulva develops changes (mutations) in its DNA. DNA contains the instructions for a cell’s functions. Mutations can cause cells to grow and divide uncontrollably. These abnormal cells can form a mass called a tumor. Over time, cancerous tumors, can spread to nearby tissues and other parts of the body.

Diagnosing Vulvar Cancer

To diagnose vulvar cancer, doctors in India usually follow these steps:

• Physical Examination: The doctor will first examine the vulva for any unusual changes or lumps,.
• Biopsy:  The extraction of small tissue from the affected area to check for cancer cells under a microscope.
• Imaging Tests: Tests like MRI, CT Scans or ultrasound are helpful to see if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Vulvar Cancer Treatment Options in India

India offers a wide range of treatment options for vulvar cancer under the guidance of expert oncologist and gynecologist at top hospitals. The treatment plan depends on the stages and size of the cancer cells, as well as the overall health of the patient.

• Wide Local Excision: In early stage cancer, the removal of tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue ensure the elimination of all cancer cells.
• Vulvectomy: This involves removing part or all of the vulva. It can be partial or complete, depending on the cancer’s spread.
• Lymph Node Dissection: If the cancer spreads, the elimination of lymph nodes in the groin area prevent further spread.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy use high energy rays to kill cancer cells. It is often used to before surgery to shrink the tumor or after to destroy any remaining cancer cells. In some cases, radiation is combined with chemotherapy for a more effective result.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to destroy cancer cells throughout the body. It may be given as a primary treatment or combined with radiation therapy, especially if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
• Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules involved in cancer growth. It aims to attack cancer cells while causing less harm to normal cells. This treatment is available in selected Indian hospitals and is often used for severe cases.

Best Hospital for Vulvar Cancer Treatment in India

• Fortis Hospital, Bangalore
• MGM Healthcare, Chennai
• Venkateshwar Hospital, New Delhi
• Batra Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Delhi
• BLK Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi
• Max Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi
• Medanta the Medicity, Gurgaon
• Care Institute of Medical Sciences, Ahmedabad
• Gleneagles Global Hospital, Hyderabad
• Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai

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