Can vulvar cancer be detected through an HPV test?

Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
Updated on September 12, 2024
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Vulvar cancer cannot be detected through an HPV test, as the HPV test is a virological examination specifically designed to determine the presence of the human papillomavirus infection, but it cannot confirm the existence of vulvar cancer. Clinically, examinations for vulvar cancer primarily include a detailed physical examination to ascertain the presence of lumps, ulcers, or lesions on the vulva. Additionally, vulvar ultrasound, CT, or MRI can be performed to understand the extent of vulvar cancer invasion. A pathological examination of vulvar cancer can also be conducted to diagnose the disease.

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Written by Sun Ming Yue
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How long does it take for vulvar cancer to progress from early to late stage?

If you have vulvar cancer, and want to know how long it takes to progress from early to late stage, it varies from person to person and cannot precisely be determined. Each individual's constitution is different, so the progression of the disease varies. It is recommended that patients seek medical treatment as soon as they discover they have vulvar cancer, to try to control the growth of the tumor, prevent it from spreading, enhance immune system, and improve physique, thereby aiming to extend survival.

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Late-stage vulvar cancer can spread to where?

Patients with vulvar cancer generally have lymphatic metastasis because there are many lymphatic vessels in the perineum, and the capillaries of the lymphatic system are interconnected. Thus, vulvar cancer can lead to bilateral lymphatic vessel spread. Initially, it leads to superficial inguinal lymph nodes, then it spreads to the bone lymph nodes below the groin, and eventually progresses to the lymph nodes alongside the aorta and the lymph nodes below the left clavicle. If the cancer is located in the clitoris, it may bypass the superficial inguinal lymph nodes and directly spread to the lymph nodes inside the pelvis. The tumor in the vulvar area will gradually increase in size; it generally does not invade the muscle fascia or adjacent structures. If the vagina is invaded, it can easily and immediately involve the levator ani muscles, rectum, urethral opening, and bladder, among others.

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Written by Yan Chun
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What tests are needed to determine the cause of vulvar cancer?

Vulvar cancer is a type of malignant tumor in female gynecology. Clinically, the following examinations can be used to identify the cause of vulvar cancer. First, testing for human papillomavirus (HPV) can be conducted. If the patient is found to be infected with HPV, then the cause of vulvar cancer can be considered to be due to viral infection. Additionally, herpes virus testing can also be performed, as many patients with vulvar cancer are caused by herpes virus infection. Thirdly, cytological examination of the vulva can be conducted to detect if there are any malnutritive lesions, such as vulvar lichen sclerosus, and other diseases like dermatophytosis, which are also reasons for the high incidence of vulvar cancer.

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Written by Cui Fang Bo
Oncology
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Can vulvar cancer be detected by B-ultrasound?

Vulvar cancer, due to its superficial location, does not require an ultrasound for detection. Vulvar cancer is a malignant tumor of the vulva, with primary squamous epithelium being the most common type. The main clinical manifestations are vulvar nodules, often accompanied by pain and significant itching. Local necrosis or infection can occur, and the lesions of vulvar cancer can be directly observed with the naked eye. However, ultrasound examination is also widely used in vulvar cancer, not for detecting the cancer itself, but for examining whether there is enlargement of the lymph nodes in the groin, abdomen, and pelvic regions, suspecting invasion by cancer cells.

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Can vulvar cancer be detected by TCT?

The patient's TCT generally cannot detect whether they have vulvar cancer. TCT can also be referred to as liquid-based thin layer cytology, primarily examining the exfoliated cells scraped from the cervix to see if they are malignant. A negative result indicates that there is no cervical cancer. If one wishes to check for vulvar cancer, gynecological examinations can be conducted. These include blood tests for tumor markers, vaginal ultrasound, and vaginal tissue biopsy. Through these tests, any abnormalities in the vulva can be detected. It is advised that patients seek timely examination and treatment based on the disease.