Vulvar dermatoses

Dermatologic manifestations of vulvar disease can be confusing, the cause ambiguous, and the course of treatment long. Without a specific complaint, the vulva is often overlooked during a routine pelvic examination, and is often simply "the means to go through" in order to perform the routine Pap smear. The clinician must develop an awareness of the importance of dermatologic manifestations related to the vulva. A systematic approach is necessary to determine the pathogenesis and clinical behavior of vulvar conditions. This article will focus on identification of the various classifications of vulvar dermatoses, the causes of these conditions, differential diagnoses, accurate assessment, and management of cutaneous vulvar conditions.