What is Precancer?

What is precancer?

Welcome to the confusing world of precancer. I’m just keeping it real with you, because I know what you’re thinking. Precancer? Vulvar intraepithelial neo... what? Now what you LS devil!?
Let me introduce you to Precancer AKA VIN AKA Vulvar Intrapathelial Neoplasia. Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia is not cancer, but if left untreated can progress into it over the years. VIN comes in 3 levels. So, there’s VIN1, VIN2, & VIN3. The levels pertain to how deep the abnormal cells are in the tissue. VIN1 is considered low grade, while VIN3 is considered high grade. VIN1 is either left untreated, or treated with an immune response modifier cream such as Imiquimod. In some cases VIN1 will regress, which is why doctors will simply closely monitor the area. If you have VIN2, doctors may choose laser(some drs. do this with VIN1, too), creams, or will perform a WLE. A WLE is a wide local excision. It is a procedure where the doctor will cut out the effected area to ensure removal of all of the abnormal cells. WLE's are often always the doctor’s chosen treatment if you have VIN3. 

***I believe it is important to note that if you have LS and VIN1 sometimes the creams may be more damaging than healing to your vulva. In my personal experience, it extremely thinned and damaged my skin. The treatment did not work, and I was covered in bleeding blisters. These side effects are to be expected with the cream to an extent, but I got it much earlier on and much more severely. My OBGYN explained that my skin probably didn’t react well with that certain type of cream, and I may need to try a more hardcore chemo cream. LS and vulva cancer are not my OBGYNs specialty, so I was blessed to be able to get a second opinion from an amazing doctor at Moffitt. He explained I should not have used the Imiquimod cream, and definitely should not put the chemo cream on my skin. Due to the LS, the creams just destroy my vulva. So, we are currently closely monitoring the situation. Remember that doctors have differing opinions, and so little is known that there is a lot of beliefs up for debate. This is in no way medical advice. Work with your doctor closely, let them know of any changes during treatment, and they will work with you to find out what solution is best. Everyone’s body is different. What may work for one person, may not work for another. So, keep an open mind, truly follow your treatment, and listen to your body!! It’s YOUR body at the end of the day!

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