What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Acrochordon of Vagina
• Skin Tags of Vagina
• Vaginal Fibroepithelial Stromal Polyp

What is Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina? (Definition/Background Information)

• Fibroepithelial Polyp (FEP) of Vagina is a rare, benign tumor that arises from the skin of the vagina. On morphological examination, the tumor has polypoid configuration
• Vaginal Fibroepithelial Polyps are typically seen in adult women during pregnancy. Some are known to be present in newborns. It may be caused by hormonal factors
• The risk factors for Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina are unknown. There is also no link of the condition to human papilloma virus (HPV) infection and it is not transmitted sexually
• The tumors are usually singular, but may be many in number. They are generally small, but can grow to large sizes. Frequently, the tumors ulcerate and bleed
• In a majority of cases, no treatment in necessary, unless it causes worrisome symptoms in the individual. A simple surgical excision of the tumor is considered curative
• The prognosis for Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina is excellent with suitable treatment. FEP of Vagina is a benign tumor and no malignant transformation is observed

Who gets Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina is an uncommon condition that is generally present in adult women around or during pregnancy
• The condition can affect newborn girl babies too
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no risk factors have been identified for Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina? (Etiology)

The cause of development of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina is unknown.

• Some researchers believe that it is the underlying hormones during pregnancy, which cause the squamous epithelium and connective tissues to grow causing the condition
• Many studies have shown that there is no relation of the condition to HPV infection
• Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina is not a sexually-transmitted infection that spreads from one individual to another

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina?

The signs and symptoms of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina are generally insignificant. The characteristic features of the tumor include:

• The tumor can grow in size during pregnancy and decrease in size after pregnancy is over
• It usually occurs as a solitary nodule on the vagina; there can be multiple nodules too
• It is a slow-growing tumor and is usually painless and non-itchy
• The tumor ranges in size from 2 mm to about 5 cm; sometimes, the tumors are known to grow up to 20 cm in size
• These skin lesions are pink in color

How is Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina may involve the following:

• A thorough medical history and physical examination
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Tissue biopsy: A tissue biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina?

Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina is a benign skin lesion and it generally does not cause any complications. However, in some cases the following may be observed:

• There may be pain and discomfort during sex causing emotional stress
• The condition can recur in subsequent pregnancies
• Frequently, the lesions bleed and ulcerate resulting in superimposed infections (bacterial or fungal)
• Recurrence of the genital lesions after surgery is observed in some women
• Some individuals may develop stress and anxiety fearing that the condition is a sexually-transmitted infection

How is Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina Treated?

The treatment of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina may involve the following:

• In a majority of cases, removal of the tumor is not necessary, unless it causes bothersome signs and symptoms
• The treatment is a simple surgical excision, which can result in a cure
• Some women may require reassurance and support to help with stress and anxiety. The healthcare professional may dispel fears that the condition is not due to a sexually-transmitted infection
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important and encouraged

How can Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina be Prevented?

Currently, there are no known methods to prevent Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina occurrence.

What is the Prognosis of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis for Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina is excellent with appropriate treatment, since it is a benign tumor. However, the condition can recur in subsequent pregnancy.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vagina:

• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Vaginal Fibroepithelial Polyp formation
• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition
• The presence of dirt on the body is not a causative factor for the condition. However, it helps to be clean and hygienic, which may help the condition from getting worse