Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 16, 2026
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Ex Vivo Infection of Human Lymphoid Tissue and Female Genital Mucosa with Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1 and Histoculture
Published on: October 12, 2018
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Viral Infections of the Vulva: A Narrative Review
Matteo Terrinoni1,2, Tullio Golia D'Augè3, Ottavia D'Oria4
1Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy.
Life (Basel, Switzerland)
|September 27, 2025
Summary
Vulvar viral infections require a multidisciplinary approach for effective management. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment, including HPV vaccination, improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and Infectious Diseases
- Gynecology and Public Health
Background:
- Vulvar viral infections (condyloma acuminata, genital herpes, molluscum contagiosum, Lipschütz ulcers) affect all ages and present diverse symptoms.
- These infections cause functional impairment and significant psychosocial distress, necessitating comprehensive management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline best practices for diagnosing and managing common vulvar viral infections.
- To provide practical guidance for clinicians to enhance recognition and therapeutic decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Structured literature search in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science.
- Review of international guidelines and key article reference lists.
- Focus on paradoxical presentations, pediatric cases, and cost-effectiveness.
Main Results:
- HPV vaccination reduces anogenital warts; early PCR/NAAT for HSV aids targeted therapy.
- First-line treatments include oral acyclovir/famciclovir for HSV and topical agents for HPV.
- Host factors and irritants influence recurrence, guiding suppressive regimens and care.
Conclusions:
- Personalized, multidisciplinary management integrating prevention, diagnostics, therapy, and psychosocial support optimizes outcomes.
- Health-economic evaluations support the value of rapid diagnostics and vaccination programs.
- Improved clinical recognition and therapeutic decision-making are crucial for patient well-being.
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