[Experiences in radiotherapy of vulvar carcinomas].

The management of 137 patients with carcinoma of the vulva is reported. The mean age at the onset of the disease of the patient was 64.1 yrs. Between 34 and 45% of the patients had diabetes. The predominant type of carcinoma was squamous cell carcinoma with the lesion originating from the labia. Metastases were found in eight patients. The value of lymphography in the management of carcinoma of the vulva is discussed. The 5 year survival rate was 24%. In the group of patients receiving radiotherapy alone, a high incidence of recurrence was observed. Following adequate surgery for carcinoma of the vulva, the incidence of recurrence was low. It is concluded that a mature carcinoma of the vulva cannot be cured by radiotherapy as the only modality. (auth)