Lipschütz ulcers: Case series of an uncommon clinical entity featuring a first reported case in pregnancy

Ivana Paljk Likar1, Kristina Drusany Starič1, Marina Jakimovska1

  • 1Department of Gynecology, Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia; Faculty of medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov trg 2, Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Lipschütz ulcers, also known as "ulcus vulvae acutum" are a rare genital ulcerations. They typically present following flu-like or mononucleosis-like symptoms, leading to the sudden appearance of genital ulcers. Although uncommon, the condition is usually self-limiting, resolving within two to four weeks. Treatment focuses on supportive care and pain management. We report a case series that occurred at our emergency gynecology department. This includes three young sexually inactive patients, two of whom presented with recurrent Lipschütz ulcers - a very rare occurrence. Additionaly in one of our cases the acute vulvar ulcers emerged in pregnancy. Lipschütz ulcers are uncommon, but taking an accurate medical history can be beneficial. Increasing awareness of Lipschütz ulcers is essential to ensure proper management and prevent overtreatment or interventions that may cause unnecessary distress for the patient. The occurence in pregnancy has not been described yet.

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