What are the referral criteria for suspected vulval cancer to a specialist?

Referral criteria for suspected vulval cancer to a specialist:

• Refer women with an unexplained vulval lump or ulceration for a suspected cancer pathway referral.
• Refer women with unexplained vulval bleeding for a suspected cancer pathway referral.

These criteria apply regardless of age and are based on clinical findings of unexplained vulval symptoms suggestive of malignancy.

Such referrals should be made urgently to ensure timely specialist assessment and management.

References: These recommendations are from the NICE guideline NG12 on suspected cancer recognition and referral.

All referral recommendations for vulval cancer are summarized under vulval symptoms in the guideline.

Specifically, unexplained vulval lumps, ulcers, or bleeding warrant urgent referral on a suspected cancer pathway.