Vulvar Cancer Treatment (PDQ®): Treatment - Patient Information [NCI]-General Information About Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar Cancer Treatment (PDQ®): Treatment - Patient Information [NCI] - General Information About Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar Cancer Treatment (PDQ®): Treatment - Patient Information [NCI] Guide

• General Information About Vulvar Cancer
• Stages of Vulvar Cancer
• Recurrent Vulvar Cancer
• Treatment Option Overview
• Treatment Options by Stage
• Treatment Options for Recurrent Vulvar Cancer
• To Learn More About Vulvar Cancer
• Changes to This Summary (07 / 23 / 2014)
• About This PDQ Summary
• Get More Information From NCI

Tests that examine the vulva are used to detect (find) and diagnose vulvar cancer.

The following tests and procedures may be used:

• Physical exam and history: An exam of the body to check general signs of health, including checking the vulva for signs of disease, such as lumps or anything else that seems unusual. A history of the patient's health habits and past illnesses and treatments will also be taken.
• Biopsy: The removal of samples of cells or tissues from the vulva so they can be viewed under a microscope by a pathologist to check for signs of cancer.

Certain factors affect prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options.

The prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options depend on the following:

• The stage of the cancer.
• The patient's age and general health.
• Whether the cancer has just been diagnosed or has recurred (come back).