Patient's question:
Can leukoplakia in the gynecological area be treated? Is it the same as leukoplakia in other parts of the body?Doctor's answer:
Hello, leukoplakia of the vulva is often discovered due to external itching of the vulva, characterized by the appearance of white patches on the vulvar area, where the skin becomes thicker and harder, with a rough surface. When the condition is severe, or if the skin in the leukoplakia area is scratched and develops breaks or cracks, not only itching but also pain in the vulva may occur. Vulvar leukoplakia is a precancerous condition among vulvar white lesions, and not all white patches on vulvar skin are leukoplakia. The malignancy rate of vulvar leukoplakia is as high as 10-20%, so prevention is crucial.First, pay attention to vulvar hygiene. Wash the vulva with warm water twice a day, avoiding the use of medicinal soaps that may irritate the vulva. If cervical (cervicitis) or vaginal (vaginitis) is present, seek early treatment to reduce the stimulation of leukorrhea on the vulvar skin. If white patches, itching, or increased leukorrhea are observed on the vulvar skin, seek timely examination. A pathological biopsy may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Even if the test results are negative, continue monitoring symptom progression, such as whether the itching intensity increases or if the patches enlarge when observed in a mirror. If there is any development, another pathological biopsy should be performed.
For the treatment of leukoplakia, if it is not moderate or severe dysplasia, 0.5-1% testosterone propionate ointment or 0.45% hydrocortisone acetate ointment can be applied externally. Alternatively, a base closure can be performed using 5 mg of prednisone acetate mixed with 20 mL of 0.25% procaine, administered weekly for 10 sessions as one course. Oral vitamins A, B, and E, as well as traditional Chinese medicine herbs like honeysuckle, cinnabar, Sophora flavescens, Epimedium, dictamnus, and white (white schisandra), can be decocted for internal consumption and external washing. Additionally, acupoint laser irradiation and cryotherapy may be used for moderate and severe dysplasia, or for older patients.