What Is Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia?
VIN is a precancerous skin condition on the vulva. VIN is not cancer. However, if the changes become more severe, cancer of the vulva may develop after many years.
Causes of VIN
It has been linked to:
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
Lichen Sclerosis
Herpes simplex virus
Granuloma inguinale, a sexually transmitted disease (STD)
Smoking
Immunosuppression
Chronic vulvar irritation
Symptoms of VIN
Symptoms may vary:
Chronic vulvar itching
Burning, tingling or soreness in the vulva area
Change in appearance of skin (i.e. redness or white, discoloured skin)
Slightly raised skin lesions; some may appear darkened like a mole or freckle
Pain during sex
In rare cases, there may be no symptoms initially.
Diagnosis of VIN
Diagnosis may include:
A physical exam
Vulvoscopy, a special microscope to closely examine the tissue for abnormal areas
A biopsy of the affected area.
How Is VIN Treated?
Treatment varies depending on how abnormal the skin cells are, the size of the affected area, and the estimated risk of the area developing into vulvar cancer.
Treatment options include:
Steroid cream to reduce inflammation and control symptoms, with close monitoring
Surgery to remove the abnormal tissue
Laser therapy to destroy targeted areas of abnormal cells, using a beam of light
Diathermy, which uses a tiny electrical current to cut out the affected areas
Topical chemotherapy cream to remove abnormal cells
Vulvectomy, removal of the whole vulva, in rare cases where the affected areas are very large
VIN can recur after treatment, therefore regular follow-up appointments are highly recommended.
CLINICS
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Harley Street Clinic: 25 Harley Street, Central London, W1G 9QW
Portland Hospital: 215 Great Portland Street, Central London, W1W 5AH
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Harley Street Gynaecology is registered as a limited company in England and Wales under company number 08306857.