Noninfectious Inflammatory Disorders of the Vulva

Abstract

A myriad of diseases that affect the skin can involve the perigenital regions, including the vulvar skin and mucosa. Some of these processes may mimic neoplastic lesions, while others may increase the risk of developing neoplasia or may indicate a risk for subsequent disease/malignancy. Many processes carry substantial morbidity and will affect the patient’s quality of life. Familiarity with the histologic spectrum of inflammatory processes involving the vulva will allow for appropriate treatment and further triage/screening of patients. This chapter provides a framework by which to recognize many of these inflammatory dermatoses, discusses the clinical presentations, associated conditions, histopathologic findings and differential diagnoses, and suggests practical ways in which to handle biopsies provided with minimal clinical information.