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Vulvovaginitis in childhood

Metella Dei1, Floriana Di Maggio, Gilda Di Paolo

  • 1Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy. meteldei@alice.it

Best Practice & Research. Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology
|November 4, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Vulvitis and vulvovaginitis are common in children. Identifying risk factors and pathogens like Streptococcus pyogenes and Enterobius vermicularis guides diagnosis and treatment for these frequent paediatric complaints.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gynecology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Vulvitis and vulvovaginitis present frequent complaints in pediatric patients.
  • Distinguishing between dermatological conditions, non-specific vulvitis, and true vulvovaginitis requires understanding risk factors and pathogenetic mechanisms.
  • Clinical examination is crucial for accurate diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review common causes and diagnostic approaches for vulvitis and vulvovaginitis in children.
  • To outline current treatment strategies for specific and non-specific vulvovaginal infections.
  • To provide guidance on evaluating recurrent cases and potential sexual abuse.

Main Methods:

  • Review of microbiological data to identify common pathogens.
  • Clinical examination findings in differentiating various vulvar conditions.
  • Analysis of treatment protocols for pediatric vulvovaginitis.

Main Results:

  • Common pathogens include Streptococcus pyogenes, Haemophilus influenzae, and Enterobius vermicularis.
  • Fungal and viral infections are less frequent causes.
  • Opportunistic pathogens and sexually transmitted organisms require careful consideration.

Conclusions:

  • Accurate diagnosis of pediatric vulvitis/vulvovaginitis relies on clinical assessment and microbiological data.
  • Treatment varies based on specific pathogens and whether the condition is specific or non-specific.
  • Evaluation for recurrence and potential sexual abuse is essential in specific circumstances.

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