What causes vulvar cancer

Vulvar cancer is usually caused by factors such as human papillomavirus infection, long-term chronic inflammatory stimulation, vulvar malnutrition, immunosuppression, and smoking. Vulvar cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the female vulva. It mainly presents symptoms such as vulvar itching, pain, ulcers or masses.

1. Human papillomavirus infection

Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus is the main causative factor of vulvar cancer, especially HPV16 and HPV18. Viral infection can lead to vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia, which may progress to invasive cancer if left untreated for a long time. Patients may experience vulvar skin roughness, thickening, pigmentation and other changes. Treatment requires local excision, laser treatment or photodynamic therapy according to the condition, and if necessary, antiviral drugs such as interferon gel.

2. Long-term chronic inflammation stimulation

Long-term stimulation of the vulva by inflammatory diseases such as chronic dermatitis and lichen sclerosus may induce abnormal cell proliferation. Patients often experience symptoms such as thinning and whitening of the vulva skin, chapped and bleeding. Treatment requires controlling the primary disease. Clobetasol propionate ointment can be used to relieve symptoms. In severe cases, surgical removal of the diseased tissue is required. It is necessary to keep the vulva clean and dry every day to avoid scratching and irritation.

3. Vulvar malnutrition

Non-tumor-like lesions in the vulvar epithelium, such as lichen sclerosus and squamous epithelial hyperplasia, may malignantly transform into vulvar cancer. The symptoms include thinning, pale or thickening of the vulva skin, accompanied by intractable itching. Mild cases can be treated with progesterone ointment combined with local injection, while moderate to severe cases require extensive resection of the lesion. Regular follow-up can detect cancer tendencies early.

4. Immunosuppressive state

AIDS patients and people who use immunosuppressants after organ transplantation are prone to vulvar cancer due to reduced immune surveillance function. The lesions of these patients progress rapidly and may be accompanied by extensive ulcers or cauliflower-like masses. Treatment requires adjusting the dosage of immunosuppressants and combining surgery and radiotherapy. Immunomodulatory drugs such as thymosin enteric-coated tablets can be used in conjunction.

5. Smoking

Carcinogens in tobacco reach the vulva tissue through the blood and may induce genetic mutations. The incidence of vulvar cancer in smokers is significantly increased, and the prognosis is poor. Vulvar pigmentation and erosion are common in patients. Smoking cessation is an important preventive measure. Treatment requires extensive vulvectomy combined with radiotherapy according to the stage. Compound cantharides capsules can be used as auxiliary treatment after surgery.

Preventing vulvar cancer requires regular gynecological examinations, HPV vaccination, and timely treatment of chronic vulvar diseases. Keep the vulva clean and breathable and avoid using harsh lotions. Seek medical attention as soon as possible when symptoms such as persistent itching and ulcers occur. Early treatment can lead to a better prognosis. After surgery, patients need to follow the doctor's instructions for regular check-ups and pay attention to observe whether there are signs of recurrence.