Definition & Etiology
Definition
- Itching of vulva region
Prevelance
- Irritant contact dermatitis: 50% of chronic vulvar pruritus cases
Etiology
Dermatological:
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
- Contact dermatitis (allergic and irritant)
- Seborrhoeic dermatitis
- Psoriasis
- Lichen sclerosis
- Lichen planus Infectious:
- Pubic lice
- Scabies
- Threadworms
- Trichomonas vaginalis
- HSV
- Candidiasis
- Bacterial vaginosis
Neoplastic:
- Squamous cell carcinoma (secondary to lichen sclerosis/planus)
- VIN (Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia)
- Associated with HPV and lichen sclerosis
Hormonal:
- Atrophic vaginitis (perimenopause/menopause)
Neurological:
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Multiple sclerosis
- L4-S2 lesions
Other:
- Medication-induced: NSAIDs, doxycycline
- Systemic: Iron deficiency anaemia, lymphomas, diabetes