High-intensity focused ultrasound treatment for non-neoplastic epithelial disorders of the vulva

To assess the efficacy of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatment in patients with non-neoplastic epithelial disorders of the vulva.

We reviewed 41 cases of lichen sclerosus, 38 cases of squamous cell hyperplasia, and 17 mixed cases treated by HIFU from April 2004 to July 2008 at the Women's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine. Biopsy specimens were assessed with light microscopy before and after treatment.

Pruritus and signs of vulvar lesions were dramatically improved following HIFU treatment, without severe complications, and 90.23% of the patients were cured or had their symptoms improved 6months after treatment. On light microscopy, pigmentation and epithelial structures were recovered and dermal lymphocytic infiltration was reduced. The response rates were lower and complication rates higher among lichen sclerosus than among squamous cell hyperplasia cases (P<0.05 for both).

Treatment with HIFU may be safe and effective in cases of vulvar dystrophy.