Clinical profile and treatment of patients with Vulvar Cancer: experience from a novice Gynecologic Oncology unit in Sub Saharan Africa

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Abstract Introduction Vulvar cancer is rare accounting approximately for 4% of gynecologic malignancies. The prevalence of vulvar cancer rising in sub-Saharan Africa primarily attributed to high incidence of HIV infections. This study aims to explore clinic-pathologic profile and treatment of patients at a novice gynecologic oncology unit in Ethiopia. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, among vulvar cancer patients treated at Saint Paul’s Hospital millennium medical college in Ethiopia, gynecology oncologic unit from 2016 to 2020. Data was collected from patients’ medical records and hospital registries using a simple data extraction format. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS 23.1 computer statistical software. Results The magnitude of vulvar cancer was 3.6%, with mean age of patients being 42 years. Commonest symptoms were vulvar swelling, itching, and ulceration. The average duration of symptoms was 12 months and 66 percent of patients were HIV positive. The mean lesion size was 5 cm, with squamous cell carcinoma being the most prevalent (82%). Disease was early stage in 56% percent of patients. Fifty seven Percent were given treatment. Surgery was done to 37% of patients, postoperative wound complications rate being 30 percent. 43 percent had Postoperative follow-up and among those who adhered to follow-up, 85 individuals were disease-free at the last assessment, with only one case of recurrent disease. Conclusions Vulvar cancer is not uncommon being more prevalent among HIV patients. Early diagnosis and staging are crucial for improved patient outcomes. Interventions to raise awareness, implementing screening programs, and ensuring early referrals are imperative.

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