Vulvar Cancer Diagnosis

Vulvar cancer is a malignant tumor originating from the vulvar epithelium. In its early stage, it is often confused with inflammation or infection. Delayed diagnosis may lead to lymph node spread and local structural damage, affecting function and quality of life. Confirmation relies on tissue biopsy and imaging assessment to clarify staging and guide appropriate treatment choices.

Diagnostic Basis

1. Pathological biopsy

Biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosing vulvar cancer. Sampling vulvar lesions for histological analysis can confirm cancer type and differentiation. Immunohistochemical testing of HPV-related molecular markers provides a basis for precision treatment.

2. Colposcopy and local examination

Colposcopy or specialized vulvoscopy allows observation of lesion contour changes and boundaries, guiding biopsy site selection, evaluating lesion extent, and determining whether deeper tissues or lymph nodes are involved.

3. Imaging examinations

① MRI: Provides detailed imaging of tumor invasion into vulvar tissues, lymph nodes, and adjacent structures.

② CT: Suitable for screening inguinal and pelvic lymph nodes and assessing possible metastasis to abdominal or pelvic structures.

③ PET-CT: Used to determine systemic metastasis or recurrence, evaluate tumor activity, and assess treatment effectiveness.

4. Serum and HPV testing

Although there are no specific tumor markers, HPV screening helps identify high-risk infections and supports risk assessment. Routine serum tests are mainly for preoperative evaluation of general physical condition, with limited diagnostic value.

5. Multidisciplinary team evaluation

After diagnosis, gynecology, oncology, imaging, and pathology specialists should jointly evaluate and formulate an individualized treatment plan that balances functional preservation with radical resection.

Conclusion

Experts at United Life International Medical Center remind us that any abnormality in the vulvar region should be promptly biopsied and thoroughly assessed with imaging. Early diagnosis and scientifically designed treatment are the keys to controlling disease progression, preserving function, and improving prognosis.