Didactics-Vulvar Melanoma

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video discussed vulvar melanoma, which is the second most common histology of vulvar cancer. Unlike other types of melanoma, vulvar melanoma is not related to chronic sun exposure. Symptoms of vulvar melanoma are similar to vulvar cancer, including pigmented lesions, pruritus, bleeding, ulceration, and pain. The diagnosis is confirmed through a biopsy. Molecular features of vulvar melanoma include BRAF proto-oncogene, NRAS mutations, PD-L1, PD-1, and CKIT mutations. Staging is done using TNM and AJCC stages, and treatment is similar to cutaneous melanoma, with surgical excision being the primary treatment. The GOG72 trial found that local excision had better outcomes than vulvectomy or radical vulvar surgery. Sentinel lymph node biopsy is also performed. Adjuvant treatments for vulvar melanoma include targeted therapies such as nivolumab and pembrolizumab, and cytotoxic agents like carboplatin and flacoprotexil. The prognosis for vulvar melanoma is generally poor, with a five-year survival rate of around 46%. Follow-up includes regular check-ups and imaging scans.

Asset Subtitle

Maria Gabriela Baumgarten Kuster Uyeda
October 2023

Keywords

vulvar melanoma

symptoms

diagnosis

treatment

prognosis