[Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasm]

Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia is a challenge for the physician as it is asymptomatic and it can evolve to malignant disease. A high suspicion index, as well as some biopsies are necessary, provided an early invasive disease can exist.

To establish the patient's characteristics with vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia, seen at the Clinica de Especialidades de la Mujer, SEDENA.

An observational and retrospective analysis was done from February 1st, 1990 to December 31st, 2004. We used the data base of the Hospital Central Militar and of the Clinica de Especialidades de la Mujer, SEDENA. We identified patients with vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia or in situ vulvar cancer diagnosis. We assessed the following variables: patient's age, intraepithelial neoplasia or history of cervical cancer, acuminated vagina or condylomas, prescribed treatment and current health state.

We identified 38 patients with ages between 49 and 82 years old. Patients with intraepithelial neoplasia I were the youngest, except one, whom at the moment of the diagnosis had 58 years old. The histopathological diagnosis was of intraepithelial neoplasia type I (koilocytotic atypia) in 10 cases, type II in 10 more, and type III in 18 of them.

Treatment should be individual for each patient. In most of the cases and due to the high recurrence rates we prefer the conservative treatments.