Peer Reviewed
Feature Article Dermatology
Demystifying malignant vulvar skin lesions
Recent articles on:
Skin cancer
Skin cancer
Abstract
Although vulvar skin cancers are rare, the symptoms and signs vary considerably, making diagnosis challenging. Generally, if an area of vulvar skin does not look normal then it probably isn’t. If the findings are uncertain, refer the patient for a specialist opinion immediately.
Key Points
- More conditions are missed by not looking than by not knowing.
- Vulvar cancer symptoms vary considerably. If an area of vulvar skin does not look normal, it probably isn’t.
- Most vulvar lesions are benign, particularly when bilateral.
- Consider the possibility of a premalignant or malignant condition being present, especially if lesions are solitary or unilateral.
- The clinical appearance of a lesion does not always suggest the diagnosis.
- If a lesion is suspicious, referral of the patient to a gynaecologist is recommended.
- If a malignancy is diagnosed, refer the patient to a gynaecological oncologist for treatment and follow up.
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