Vulvar dystrophy is a skin condition that can affect the external female genitalia, causing thick or thin skin, discoloration, and painful patches or sores. Lichen sclerosis and lichen simplex chronicus are two types of vulvar dystrophy that can cause thin or thickened skin, respectively. Squamous cell hyperplasia and lichen planus can also cause thickened or red, irritated skin. These conditions can be caused by various factors, including irritation, stress, and medical conditions, and may require careful monitoring for the development of vulvar cancer.
The external female genitalia, including the clitoris, labia, mons veneris, and perineum, are collectively referred to as the vulva. One of the women’s health conditions that can affect this area of the body is vulvar dystrophy. This skin condition typically manifests as vulvar skin that is too thick or thin, often with white or gray discoloration, or as red, painful patches or sores. Depending on the type of vulvar dystrophy, it can be caused by irritation of the vulva, excessive mental stress, or the existence of a medical condition that compromises the immune system.
When vulvar dystrophy causes the skin to become too thin, the condition is known as lichen sclerosis. Often the skin also takes on the appearance of a crumpled piece of paper. This thinner skin is prone to injury, which can cause bleeding and even scarring that can block the normal flow of urine. The opening to the vagina can also narrow, making intercourse painful or impossible. Lichen sclerosis can occur in women of any age, but is more common among young women going through puberty and older women in the midst of menopause.
Lichen simplex chronicus is a form of vulvar dystrophy that leads to thickening of the vulvar skin. This condition is typically only present on one side of the genitals and often causes the area to turn white. Clothes that are too tight and constantly rub against the genitals can lead to lichen simplex chronicus. Patients can also cause this skin condition themselves by scratching or rubbing the vulva to relieve itching from another source, such as a vaginal yeast infection.
Thickened white or gray patches on the vulva can also indicate squamous cell hyperplasia. As with lichen simplex chronicus, this condition can be caused by attempts to relieve genital itching. Patients may suffer from both lichen simplex chronicus and squamous cell hyperplasia simultaneously. A biopsy is then typically ordered to make an accurate diagnosis when a patient presents with thickened skin of the vulva. Patients who are diagnosed with both conditions may be more likely to develop vulvar cancer, so careful monitoring of their condition is indicated.
Lichen planus causes the vulvar skin to become red and irritated, which can also lead to sores. This type of vulvar dystrophy is an immune response that can be triggered by increased stress or the presence of another medical condition such as hepatitis or ulcerative colitis. Most patients presenting with lichen planus are between the ages of 30 and 60.
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