Clinical and Demographic Patterns of Vulval Dermatoses and Their Impact on Quality of Life

Vulval dermatoses may present with varied manifestations ranging from asymptomatic to chronic disabling conditions. The multifactorial nature of symptoms and physical expression of the disease on the vulva complicate the evaluation and management of genital dermatoses, thereby severely impairing the quality of life of patients.

To study the clinical patterns and socio-demographic features of vulval dermatoses and their impact on the quality of life using the dermatology life quality index (DLQI) questionnaire.

Female patients of all age groups who attended our outpatient department (OPD) from October 2019 to March 2021 with vulval lesions were included in the study after a detailed history and complete examination. Based on sites of involvement, the lesions were classified as genital lesions alone, genital and skin lesions, oro-genital lesions, and oro-genital and skin lesions. DLQI score was assessed using the DLQI questionnaire.

In total, 520 patients were recruited for the study after following the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The most common age group was 31-40 years (33.65%). The majority of the patients were married (91.92%), housewives (82.88%), and illiterate (49.61%) women. The most common presenting symptom was itching (43%). The most common vulval dermatoses were infections, seen in 401 (77.11%) patients, followed by inflammatory diseases in 78 (15%) patients, and immunobullous diseases (1.53%). Patients with genital, skin, and oral involvement showed statistically significant higher DLQI scores (P value < 0.05). Patients with immunobullous disorders had the highest mean DLQI scores.

As this study was a hospital-based study, the observations may not represent and reflect the general population.

Patients with genital, skin, and oral lesions had the highest DLQI scores, indicating higher impact on the quality of life. Assessment of the disease's impact on the quality of life is essential because it not only aids in early management but also helps in minimizing the duration of the ailment.