Papilloma virus infection of the vulva

Analyses of the possible presence of human papilloma virus (HPV) DNA were performed on 84 biopsies from 50 women with clinically and histopathologically suspected HPV infection of the vulva. The colposcopic criteria for inclusion in the study were: acetowhite flat lesions with or without fissures and/or diffuse hyperplastic mucosa with a granulated or filamental surface. Directed biopsies for histopathology and DNA hybridization (dot-blot and Southern-blot) were taken. All women had histopathological evidence of HPV infection. Twelve women had cervical and/or vulvar neoplasia. HPV DNA could be demonstrated in the vulvar biopsies from 24 women; 13 women had HPV 16, 3 had HPV 18, HPV 31 and HPV 33, respectively. In addition, 10 biopsies contained HPV DNA of unknown types. Fifty-five percent of granulated and filamental lesions and 43% of flat lesions with or without fissures were positive for HPV DNA. 34 women had one or more of the following symptoms: itching, burning, dyspareunia, discharge, fissures, dryness and dysuria. Papillomavirus vulvitis is a sexually transmitted disease which may cause recalcitrant symptoms and/or concomitant neoplasia. It is thus important to recognize the different symptoms and signs of this disease.