Vulvar cancer is an abnormal growth of cells that can occur on any part of the vulva. Cancer of the vulva is not common. It accounts for about 4% of cancers affecting the female genital organs, and less than half a percent of all cancers in women. There are several types of vulvar cancer; they are classified according to which cells in the skin become abnormal.

Squamous cell carcinomas are the most common (over 90%) type of vulvar cancer. Squamous cells make up the outer layer of the skin. These types of vulvar cancer occur most often on the labia majora, but can be found anywhere on the vulva.

Malignant melanoma is the second most common type of vulvar cancer. Melanoma develops from the color producing skin cells called “melanocytes”, and is most often found on the labia minora or clitoris.

Other types of vulvar cancer include: Adenocarcinomas, Paget’s disease, Sarcomas, Verrucous carcinomas, and Basal cell carcinomas.