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Vulvar vestibulitis syndrome: an overview.
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, George Washington University Medical School, Washington, DC.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|October 1, 1991
Summary
Vulvar vestibulitis syndrome causes severe pain and tenderness in the vulvar vestibule. Treatment focuses on underlying causes, with vestibulectomy offering a successful surgical option when other therapies fail.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Dermatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Vulvar vestibulitis syndrome presents with specific symptoms and physical findings localized to the vulvar vestibule.
- Histopathology reveals chronic inflammation, sometimes with minor vestibular gland metaplasia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the characteristics of vulvar vestibulitis syndrome.
- To explore potential multifactorial causes.
- To outline therapeutic approaches.
Main Methods:
- Clinical examination to identify pain, tenderness, and erythema.
- Histopathologic analysis of vestibular tissue.
- Review of associated conditions and therapeutic interventions.
Main Results:
- The syndrome is characterized by pain on touch, localized tenderness, and vulvar erythema.
- Associated factors include human papillomavirus, candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, altered vaginal pH, and irritant agents.
- Chronic inflammation and metaplasia are common histopathologic findings.
Conclusions:
- Vulvar vestibulitis syndrome is a distinct clinical entity with identifiable causes and symptoms.
- Management involves addressing contributing factors and symptomatic relief.
- Vestibulectomy with vaginal advancement is a highly successful surgical treatment for refractory cases.