Why Choose Us for Vulvar Cancer Care
At Huntsman Cancer Institute, you have access to expert, team-based care for vulvar cancer through our Gynecologic Cancers Program. Your care team may include gynecologic oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and supportive care specialists. We focus on providing personalized, evidence-driven treatment plans that support your health, preserve your function and dignity, and maintain your quality of life.
You will also benefit from our state-of-the-art diagnostics, innovative therapies, and access to clinical trials that may not be available elsewhere.
“Hands-down one of the best interactions with doctors I've ever had. They were friendly, thorough, listened intently, and answered all questions. They care about you as a person."
—Vulvar Cancer Patient
Treatments We Offer
Treatment depends on your cancer stage, location, and overall health. These are common options:
- Surgery: This is often the primary treatment to remove cancerous tissue.
- Radiation therapy: We use external beam or brachytherapy, a type of internal radiation therapy that involves placing radioactive seeds or wires directly into or near a tumor.
- Chemotherapy: We use this systemic therapy that involves administering chemotherapy drugs throughout the body to reach cancer cells wherever they may be, especially when the disease is more advanced
- Biologic/targeted therapies: These are generally used for advanced or recurrent cases and work by targeting specific proteins or pathways involved in cancer cell growth or by boosting the immune system.
In many cases, combinations of these treatments are used to maximize effectiveness while minimizing side effects.
Our Expertise
As the National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center serving the Mountain West, we’re here to offer you the latest treatments and the highest level of care available, including expertise in the following:
- Managing rare vulvar and other gynecologic cancers
- Multidisciplinary teams of cancer experts to coordinate optimal treatment sequencing
- Access to advanced imaging, surgical techniques, and radiation delivery technology
- Integration of clinical trials and emerging therapies into patient care
Patient Care Philosophy
We believe no one should face cancer alone. Our dedicated and world-renowned doctors, nurses, and medical staff are at the forefront of patient-centered care. We treat the whole person, not just their cancer.
Each day, our medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists work together across disciplines to create and coordinate treatment plans for every patient. We understand cancer is a complex disease. That is why we use a team approach that includes social workers and support groups, as well as wellness and integrative health services such as acupuncture, massage, creative arts, and more.
Find a Vulvar Cancer Doctor
Vulvar Cancer Research
Huntsman Cancer Institute is a nationally recognized leader in gynecologic cancer research, driving innovations that improve detection, treatment, and survivorship for people with vulvar cancer. Our specialty Breast and Gynecologic Cancers Disease Center brings together doctors and scientists who work side by side to turn scientific discoveries into better outcomes for you.
We also lead and participate in clinical trials focused on promising treatments for vulvar cancer like targeted therapy and immunotherapy. With the largest Phase 1 clinical trials program in the Mountain West, Huntsman Cancer Institute offers patients access to cutting-edge therapies not widely available elsewhere.
Clinical Trials
Make an Appointment with a Vulvar Cancer Specialist
To make an appointment with a vulvar cancer specialist, fill out our appointment form or call 801-587-7000. Our team will determine if your insurance covers treatment at Huntsman Cancer Institute or if you need a referral from a primary care doctor.
External providers can refer a patient using the online referral form or by calling 801-587-7000 to speak to a patient registration specialist.
Vulvar Cancer Basics
Vulvar cancer arises when malignant, or cancerous, cells form in the tissues of the vulva, the external genital area.
These are warning signs for vulvar cancer:
- A lump or growth on the vulva that may resemble a wart or sore
- Skin changes on vulvar tissue like color or texture
- Persistent itching in the vulvar area
- Bleeding not related to menstrual cycles
- Tenderness or discomfort in vulvar area
Many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. If you are experiencing any concerning signs, please schedule a screening today.
These are risk factors for vulvar cancer:
- History of genital warts or HPV infection
- Multiple sexual partners or early age at first sexual intercourse
- Abnormal Pap tests in the past
- Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia, a precancerous condition that affects the outer skin of the vulva
Understand your risk. Schedule a genetic counseling session today.
Doctors may use the following to diagnose vulvar cancer:
- Physical examination and medical history
- Biopsy, or removing tissue samples to evaluate under a microscope
When a person is diagnosed with cancer, concerns about treatments and side effects, hospital stays, and medical bills are common. Huntsman Cancer Institute offers many ways to support patients, caregivers, and loved ones.
Staging indicates how far the cancer has spread and helps guide treatment. These are common staging categories:
- Stage 1 (1A/1B): Cancer is limited to the vulva or perineum (area between vagina and rectum).
- Stage 2: Cancer has spread to nearby tissues or adjacent organs but not to lymph nodes.
- Stage 3 (3A/3B/3C): Cancer extends to regional lymph nodes.
- Stage 4 (4A/4B): Cancer invades upper structures (urethra, bladder, rectum, pelvic bones) or metastasizes to distant organs (e.g., lungs).
When vulvar cancer spreads from where it started to another part of the body, it is called metastasis. These metastatic cancer cells are the same type of cancer as the primary tumor.
Need help navigating your care? The Cancer Learning Center is here to support you with personalized guidance, resources, and answers to your questions.
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