Wednesday, March 12, 2025 This pivotal study is a move away from current ‘one size fits all’ treatment approaches through the testing of a vulvar cancer patients’ tissue to determine the best treatment options. Researchers want to evaluate if the molecular features in tissues removed in the first surgery can direct the need for additional surgery versus a close follow-up for patients with vulvar squamous cell cancer. “For several years we have known we are likely over treating many patients with this disease with difficult surgeries but also failing other patients who critically need encompassing surgery if they are to be cured of disease,” says, Dr. Jessica McAlpine, the VU2 study co-lead from the University of British Columbia and BC Cancer.The trial will investigate the impact of assessing the patient’s human papillomavirus (HPV) status and p53, a protein which regulates DNA repair at the tumour surgical margin. Dr. McAlpine continues, “We need to apply these simple molecular tests to direct precision surgery based on the molecular features of that individual’s vulvar cancer.” The usual approach to treating early-stage vulvar cancer consists of a single surgery to remove the cancer. However, individuals with specific molecular features have been observed to exhibit significantly high recurrence rates and may need larger surgical margins and a more encompassing surgery. Molecular testing may also identify people who do not need a second surgery, sparing them the negative impact on surgery related symptoms, self-image, quality of life and sexual function. VU2 patient information page >VU2 members trial page > Dr. Jessica McAlpine VU2 study Co-PI - University of British Columbia and BC Cancer Dr. Amy Jamieson VU2 study Co-PI, University of British Columbia and BC Cancer Dr Wendy Parulekar, CCTG Patient Representative
