What is the most common type of vulvar cancer?

The most common type of vulvar cancer is squamous cell carcinoma. This type of cancer originates from the squamous cells, which are flat cells found in the outer layer of the vulva. It accounts for the majority of vulvar cancer cases, making it the most prevalent form in this region. Factors contributing to the development of squamous cell carcinoma may include chronic irritation, lichen sclerosus, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and a history of vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia.

In contrast, the other types of cancers listed are less common in the vulvar area. Adenocarcinoma arises from glandular tissue and is not typically associated with the vulva. Sarcomas, which are cancers that originate from connective tissue, also have a rare occurrence in the vulvar region. Melanoma, while a significant skin cancer, is less prevalent as a vulvar cancer compared to squamous cell carcinoma. Thus, understanding the types of cancer that can occur in the vulvar area highlights why squamous cell carcinoma is recognized as the most common variant among them.