CARCINOMA INSITU OF THE VULVA

Abstract

Of 106 patients with carcinoma in situ (CIS) of the vulva, 102 were followed from 1-15 yr. The average age of the patient was 47 yr; 40% were under the age of 41. Twenty-seven percent had associated cervical malignancy. Only 4 patients developed invasive cancer. Of these, 2 were postmenopausal and the 2 younger patients had been immunosuppressed because of systemic disease; thus the subsequent invasive cancer. The incidence of recurrence was essentially the same whether the patient was treated by vulvectomy or side local excision. In view of the uncertainties about the invasive potential of CIS of the vulva in young patients and the absence of a proved need for an extensive procedure, this entity should be treated only by local excision.