Patient's question:
What is vulvar leukoplakia? What are the symptoms? What are the good treatment options?Doctor's answer:
Hello, the etiology of leukoplakia of the vulva is very complex and is related to factors such as genetics, chronic inflammation stimulation, endocrine disorders, immune metabolic disorders, and microcirculatory disorders.Infection and inflammatory stimulation are the main causes, accounting for about 50% of cases. Many factors can lead to vulvar infection and inflammation, such as poor hygiene habits, acute or chronic vaginitis, swimming in public baths, cross-infection during travel or overnight stays, etc., which can cause vaginal inflammation. If not treated promptly, inflammatory secretions infiltrate the perineum, and prolonged infection and stimulation can gradually develop into leukoplakia of the vulva.
Additionally, the use of unclean sanitary napkins or toilet paper during a woman's menstrual period can lead to bacterial growth and spread in the perineum. Some individuals may be allergic to synthetic materials, causing infection and stimulation of the perineum, resulting in damaged skin and mucosa, redness, swelling, ulcers, and degeneration, which may also lead to leukoplakia of the vulva. Conditions such as diabetes, vulvar eczema, or vulvar itching, if misused with medications or improperly treated, may also lead to or worsen the formation and development of leukoplakia.
Symptoms include itching, dryness, hardness, and burning-like pain in the vulvar area; localized or diffuse white thickened plaques appear on the labia majora and minora or around the perineum and anus, with rough surfaces, cracks, and ulcers. In some cases, the local skin and mucosa may become thin, with reduced elasticity, and the labia majora may shrink significantly or even disappear. Vulvar atrophy may sometimes lead to difficulties during childbirth. In addition to local symptoms, systemic symptoms such as irritability, chest tightness or palpitations, shortness of breath, general weakness, decreased appetite, insomnia and frequent dreams, lower back and waist pain, chills, and decreased libido may also occur.
Treatment for leukoplakia of the vulva