Vulvar Dysplasia Treatment in Noida

Vulvar Dysplasia

Vulvar dysplasia (also known as vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) refers to abnormal skin changes in the vulva (the outer region of the female genitalia) that are not cancerous. It refers to abnormal changes in the cells of the vulvar skin. These changes can be mild or severe, and they may increase the risk of developing vulvar cancer.

Vulvar dysplasia is typically detected during routine gynecological exams or when symptoms such as itching, pain, or abnormal bleeding occur. Typically, a biopsy is conducted to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of cell abnormalities.

It is crucial to remember that vulvar dysplasia does not always lead to cancer, but it should be closely monitored and treated if required.

Symptoms

Not everyone with VIN experiences symptoms. However, potential vulvar dysplasia symptoms may include:

• Vulvitis (itching in the vulva)

• Burning or tingling in the vulva

• Pain during sexual intercourse

• Skin color changing to white, grey, pink, reddish, or dark brown

• Skin thickening or a new growth that appears like a wart

• Cracks or ulcers on the vulvar skin
   

Causes

The specific causes of vulvar dysplasia are unknown, but several factors have been recognized as potential causes:

• One of the leading reasons is the infection with certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection.

• Chronic irritation or inflammation of the vulva, caused by long-term use of harsh hygiene products or exposure to irritants, can also lead to vulvar dysplasia.

• Hormonal abnormalities and immune system diseases have been linked to an increased risk.

When to seek medical care?

You should consult a gynecologist if you have itching, burning, pain, unusual bumps or rashes on the vulva, or irregular vaginal discharge or bleeding. And, if you have been diagnosed with vulvar dysplasia, consult your doctor regularly, especially if you notice any new or worsening symptoms. If you have a history of HPV or a weakened immune system, your doctor can monitor your condition regularly.

Complications  

The most serious risk of VIN is that it can develop into cancer if left untreated. The timeline varies depending on the type of VIN:

• Usual VIN (uVIN): This type accounts for the majority of VINs, with most  women being diagnosed in their 40s. It's linked to high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. "High-risk" refers to the virus's ability to turn normal cells into cancer cells. uVIN is also known as high-grade squamous epithelial lesions (HSIL).

• Differentiated VIN (dVIN): It is more common in adults aged 60 and above. It's linked to an inflammatory skin disorder called lichen sclerosus.

You may also develop abnormal cells on your vulva known as low-grade squamous epithelial lesions. LSIL is related to low-risk HPV (the type that causes genital warts). However, these cells rarely become malignant. They frequently resolve on their own without any treatment.
 

Diagnosis

Early detection and timely treatment are critical for avoiding complications and lowering the chance of developing vulvar cancer. At Felix Hospitals, our experts use a variety of diagnostic tools to determine the presence and severity of vulvar dysplasia, which helps them do timely intervention for successful recovery. These tests include:

• Physical examination is necessary to detect dysplasia based on texture, color, and shape changes

• Biopsy helps identify the severity and extent of dysplastic changes

• Colposcopy or Vulvoscopy can be used to magnify and closely inspect the vulvar tissue, allowing for a more thorough evaluation of any abnormalities.
   

Treatment

Vulvar Dysplasia Treatment involves removing or destroying the precancerous cells while keeping the sensation and function of your vulva. The treatment options include:

• Surgery: The specialist may remove the suspicious spots. To guarantee that no precancerous cells remain, a small amount of healthy tissue may also be eliminated along with the lesions.

• Laser ablation: Rather than using sharp equipment to remove precancerous cells (like in surgery), your doctor may use hot lasers to cut the tissue. In this case, a small margin of healthy tissue will also be removed, much like during surgery.

• Skinning vulvectomy: If the precancerous cells are distributed throughout your vulva, you may need to have the skin removed. However, this is quite rare.    

Therapy or Lifestyle Modification

Maintaining proper cleanliness is essential for general vaginal health as it can help prevent infections that might increase vulvar dysplasia symptoms. Use gentle soaps or cleansers meant specifically for intimate areas, and avoid strong chemicals or scents that might irritate sensitive skin.

Do not engage in unprotected sexual activity, as it may raise the chance of developing vulvar dysplasia or aggravating existing concerns. One should use barrier methods such as condoms while engaging in sexual activity and quit smoking.
 

Prevention

There is no foolproof preventative strategy. However, the most effective strategy to lower your risk of VIN is to obtain the HPV vaccine. It can protect you from high-risk HPV types that might cause cervical or vulvar cancer. You could also:

• Practice safe sex. Limiting your number of sexual partners and employing barrier techniques (such as condoms and dental dams) will not prevent HPV infections. However, they can minimize your risk.

• Seek medical treatment as soon as you see symptoms of lichen sclerosus (white, itchy, or irritated areas) will help you get diagnosed early and treated. Managing symptoms can help avoid cell damage that puts you at risk for VIN.

• Get regular pap smears. This can help your gynecologist detect abnormal tissue early on, when it is still treatable. HPV tests are frequently used during Pap smears to detect high-risk virus strains.

FAQ

1. What are the different kinds of vulvar dysplasia?

Ans. VINs are classified as either low or high-grade. High-grade VIN is related to an increased risk of developing cancer.

2. Is there a possibility of Vulvar Dysplasia recurring?

Ans. Yes, there is a risk of vulvar dysplasia returning following treatment.

3. Why are follow-ups required following vulvar dysplasia treatment, and how frequently should these visits be scheduled?

Ans. Close follow-up is critical because you are at risk of recurrent VIN throughout your lifetime. You should schedule follow-up appointments with a gynecologic oncologist or gynecologist who is experienced in the skin changes associated with VIN. Typically, these visits are scheduled every six to twelve months following therapy.