Female Genital Itch

• Published in: Dermatologic clinics Vol. 36; no. 3; pp. 225 - 243
• Main Authors: Savas, Jessica A., MD, Pichardo, Rita O., MD
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01.07.2018
• Subjects: Anogenital pruritus; Atopic dermatitis; Dermatitis, Atopic - complications; Dermatitis, Contact - complications; Dermatology; Female; Humans; Lichen planus; Lichen Planus - complications; Lichen sclerosus; Lichen simplex chronicus; Neurodermatitis - complications; Photochemotherapy; Postmenopause; Pruritus Vulvae - drug therapy; Pruritus Vulvae - etiology; Psoriasis - complications; Vulvar dermatoses; Vulvar itch; Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus - complications; Vulvar Neoplasms - complications; Vulvar pruritus; Vulvitis - complications; Vulvar pruritus; Vulvar itch; Atopic dermatitis; Anogenital pruritus; Lichen sclerosus; Lichen planus; Lichen simplex chronicus; Vulvar dermatoses
• ISSN: 0733-8635; 1558-0520
• DOI: 10.1016/j.det.2018.02.006

Vulvar pruritus is a common complaint among young girls and women presenting to primary care physicians, gynecologists, and dermatologists. Female genital itch is especially disruptive because of its interference with sexual function and intimacy. Causes of vulvar itch are vast and may be inflammatory, environmental, neoplastic, or infectious, often with several causes coexisting simultaneously. Diagnosis may be difficult because of the unique anatomy and inherent properties of genital and perianal skin. Treatment is aimed at eliminating outside irritants, restoring epidermal barrier function, and suppressing inflammation.