Introduction
Adenocarcinoma of the vulva is a type of cancer that affects the glandular tissue in the vulva, which is the external female genitalia. This type of cancer is relatively rare, accounting for only about 5 to 10 % of all vulvar cancers.
What Is the Incidence of Adenocarcinoma of the Vulva?
Vulvar cancer is relatively rare, accounting for about 4 % of all gynecologic cancers. The incidence of vulvar cancer has increased over the past few decades, with the greatest increase in women over 50 years.
What Are the Causes of Adenocarcinoma of the Vulva?
The exact cause of adenocarcinoma of the vulva is not known. Doctors know that cancer develops when a cell experiences DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) changes (mutations). The instructions that inform a cell what to do are encoded in its DNA. The cell is instructed to expand and divide quickly by the mutations. The cell and its progeny continue to exist when other types of cells would have died. A tumor is created by the collecting cells, which may be malignant and invade neighboring tissue before spreading to other body areas.
What Are the Risk Factor of Adenocarcinoma of the Vulva?
The risk factors of adenosarcoma of the vulva include the following:
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Age - Women over 60 years are more likely to develop vulvar cancer.
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Human Papillomavirus Infection (HPV) Infection - This sexually transmitted virus increases the risk of developing vulvar cancer.
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Certain Genetic Mutations - Genetic mutations, such as those involving the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, increase the risk of vulvar cancer.
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Chronic Irritation or Injury - Chronic irritation or injury to the vulva may increase the risk of developing vulvar cancer.
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Other Medical Conditions: Other medical conditions, such as lichen sclerosis and vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), can increase the risk of vulvar cancer.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms that Indicate the Presence of Adenocarcinoma of the Vulva?
The symptoms of adenocarcinoma of the vulva may include the following:
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Mass or lump in the vulva.
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Itching or burning in the vulva.
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Pain, especially if it is persistent or worsening.
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Bleeding from the vulva that is unrelated to menstruation.
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Changes in the color or texture of the vulva.
What Are the Staging of Adenocarcinoma of Vulva?
Staging is a way of classifying the extent of cancer and helps determine the appropriate treatment. The most commonly used staging system for vulvar cancer is the international federation of gynecology and obstetrics (FIGO) staging system. The stages are as follows:
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Stage 0 (Carcinoma in situ) - Cancer cells are present in the top layer of the skin of the vulva but have not yet invaded deeper tissues.
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Stage I - Cancer has invaded deeper tissues of the vulva but has not reached the adjacent lymph node.
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Stage II - Cancer reaches adjacent lymph nodes but not distant sites.
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Stage III - Cancer has spread to the vulva and near lymph nodes and may invade nearby structures such as the anus, bladder, or rectum.
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Stage IV - Cancer has spread to distant sites, such as the lungs, liver, or bones.
How to Diagnose Adenocarcinoma of the Vulva?
Adenosarcoma of the vulva is diagnosed by:
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Physical Exam - The healthcare provider will physically examine the vulva for signs of a mass or lump.
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Biopsy - A biopsy removes a small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope. This is the most accurate way to diagnose vulvar cancer.
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Imaging Tests - Imaging tests, including an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computed tomography) scan, may help determine the size and location of cancer.
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Staging - The cancer stage is determined based on the biopsy results and imaging tests. This information helps determine the best course of treatment.
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Cystoscopy - In cystoscopy, with the help of a thin, lighted tube inside of the bladder can be seen and the upper part of the urethra.
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Proctoscopy - This test uses a tube to see inside the rectum.
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Laparoscopy - This surgical procedure uses a thin tube to look inside the abdomen.
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PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Scan - This test combines a CT scan with a radioactive substance to create detailed images of the body's tissues and organs.
What Are the Treatments of Adenocarcinoma of the Vulva?
Some common treatments for vulvar cancer include:
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Surgery - Surgery is done in the treatment of vulvar cancer. This may include the removal of the cancerous tissue, as well as a portion of healthy tissue around the area, to reduce the risk of recurrence.
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Radiation Therapy - In radiation therapy, high-energy beams can kill cancer cells. This may be used before or after surgery or as the primary treatment for early-stage vulvar cancer.
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Chemotherapy - Drugs can kill cancer cells. This may be used before or after surgery or as the primary treatment for more advanced vulvar cancer.
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Immunotherapy - Immunotherapy uses the body's immune system to fight cancer.
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Brachytherapy - It is a type of radiation therapy involving placing radioactive seeds directly into the tissue surrounding cancer.
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Hormonal Therapy - Hormonal therapy may slow or stop the growth of certain types of vulvar cancer sensitive to hormones.
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Cryotherapy - Cryotherapy involves using extremely cold temperatures to freeze and kill cancer cells.
What Is the Prognosis of Adenocarcinoma of the Vulva?
The prognosis for vulvar cancer can vary depending on the stage and location of the cancer and the patient's overall health. As early as the cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better the prognosis. For early-stage vulvar cancer, the 5-year survival rate is generally high, with many women living long, healthy lives after treatment. The five-year survival rate may be lower for more advanced stages of vulvar cancer. However, many effective treatments are still available, and many women can achieve long-term remission with the right care and support.
Conclusion
Vulva cancer is a type of cancer that affects the external female genitalia. It is a relatively rare cancer, but its incidence has recently increased. The symptoms of vulvar cancer can include itching, burning, pain, or a lump or sore on the vulva. The best outcome for vulvar cancer can only be achieved with early detection and rapid treatment. Regular screenings may benefit women more likely to develop vulvar cancer, and they should visit a doctor if they notice any symptoms or changes that concern them. After receiving a diagnosis of vulvar cancer, many women can maintain a high standard of living and achieve positive results with the correct care and assistance.
