All of the following statements hold true for melanoma of vulva except
**Core Concept**
Melanoma of the vulva is a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer that originates from the pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. It is more common in older women and is often associated with a history of genital warts, smoking, and sun exposure.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Melanoma of the vulva typically presents as a painless, pigmented lesion, often with an irregular border and variable color. The most common type is acral lentiginous melanoma, which accounts for about 75% of cases. This type of melanoma tends to be more aggressive and has a poorer prognosis compared to other types of skin cancer.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Melanoma of the vulva is more common in older women, but it can also occur in younger women, especially those with a family history of melanoma or a history of genital warts.
**Option B:** While acral lentiginous melanoma is the most common type of melanoma of the vulva, it is not the only type. Other types, such as superficial spreading melanoma and nodular melanoma, can also occur in this location.
**Option C:** Melanoma of the vulva is a rare condition, but it is not as rare as some other types of vulvar cancer, such as adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The ABCDE rule can be helpful in diagnosing melanoma of the vulva: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter greater than 6 mm, and Evolving changes in the lesion over time.
**Correct Answer: A. Melanoma of the vulva is more common in younger women.**