[Radiotherapy of vulvar cancer. Treatment results of electron therapy in 446 patients 1956 to 1978].

446 patients with malignant tumour of the vulva were treated from 1956 to 1978. In 432 patients with invasive squamous cell carcinoma, a five-year survival rate of 43.1% was obtained after exclusive exposure to electron radiation. Severe complications were seen in 10.9% of the treated patients. On comparing the results with those obtained after electrocoagulation or vulvectomy, it was seen that a therapy based on electron radiation only yielded more favourable results, especially in cases with advanced stage carcinomas. In younger women with early tumour stages, surgery should be given preference.