Patient's question:
Recently, I've been feeling itchy in my private area, and it even got scratched open, which is very painful and uncomfortable. I went to the hospital for a check-up, and they said I have leukoplakia of the vulva. I'm really troubled. Could you please explain why leukoplakia of the vulva occurs?Doctor's answer:
The cause is unclear and may be related to systemic factors, such as diabetes or endocrine disorders affecting the local environment of the external genitalia, such as moisture or heat, which can lead to leukoplakia of the external genitalia. Traditional Chinese Medicine suggests that it is often due to dampness from the liver meridian flowing downward to invade the external genitalia, or conditions like blood deficiency with liver excess, yin deficiency of the liver and kidneys, or yang deficiency of the kidneys, where essence and blood cannot nourish the external genitalia. Medicinal treatment can include taking vitamin supplements. If the itching is severe and interferes with deep sleep, appropriate sedatives can be taken. Locally, 1% hydrocortisone and 1–2% testosterone cream can be applied. This treatment can be tolerated for 6–8 weeks, with 3–4 applications per day. While undergoing long-term treatment,