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

• Angiokeratoma of Fordyce (affecting Vulva)
• Angiokeratoma of Mibelli (affecting Vulva)
• Vulvar Angiokeratoma

What is Angiokeratoma of Vulva? (Definition/Background Information)

• Angiokeratoma of Vulva is a benign condition that results in the formation of 2-5 mm sized papules, typically purple in color, on the vulva. They may bleed when subjected to trauma (such as when squeezed)
• Vulvar Angiokeratoma is actually caused by a collection of blood vessels. There are no risk factors for the condition
• It may be diagnosed through physical examination, medical history evaluation, and confirmed through a tissue biopsy
• Treatment may be required for Angiokeratoma of Vulva, if it causes cosmetic concerns or gets infected. In such cases, a surgery or laser excision may be performed
• The prognosis of Angiokeratoma of Vulva is excellent with suitable treatment, including surgery or laser therapy

Who gets Angiokeratoma of Vulva? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Angiokeratoma of Vulva is a common, benign condition that affects both girls and women (all age groups). It is mostly seen in women in the 20-40 years age group
• In general, angiokeratomas affect males more than females
• The condition can occur worldwide and no geographical preference is seen
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected, though for some reason, it is reported more in Caucasians than African Americans

What are the Risk Factors for Angiokeratoma of Vulva? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Angiokeratoma of Vulva may include:

• Pregnancy
• Post-partum period
• Post-hysterectomy
• Vulvar varicosity (increased blood vessels on the vulva)
• Post-radiation in genital region is also believed to be a risk factor

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one's 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 Angiokeratoma of Vulva? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of development of Angiokeratoma of Vulva is unknown in a majority of cases
• The condition is not contagious and does not spread from one individual to another

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Angiokeratoma of Vulva?

The signs and symptoms of Angiokeratoma of Vulva may include:

• Presence of small, single or multiple papules, normally purple in color, on the vulva (external vaginal opening)
• The lesions may bleed when subjected to pressure or trauma (when squeezed or scratched), which can lead to an infection
• The skin over the papules may be thickened. Sometimes, the skin over the papules may get infected with bacteria or fungus
• Such bacterial infections can cause pus to drain and the lesion to become painful, resulting in severe infection

How is Angiokeratoma of Vulva Diagnosed?

The following are the diagnostic methods to help identify Angiokeratoma of Vulva:

• A thorough physical examination and a complete medical history are very crucial; a dermatologist will carefully examine the lesions to help in the diagnosis
• A biopsy of the papule is usually necessary to confirm the diagnosis. A 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 Angiokeratoma of Vulva?

The complications due to Angiokeratoma of Vulva may include:

• Severe infection necessitating surgical treatment
• Individuals may have stress and anxiety issues fearing that the condition is a sexually-transmitted infection
• Some individuals have cosmetic concerns due to the appearance of the papules

How is Angiokeratoma of Vulva Treated?

In a majority of cases, no treatment is required for Angiokeratoma of Vulva, since it is a benign condition. However, in some cases, the following treatment measures may be considered:

• Providing reassurance and helping with anxiety feelings, since the condition is harmless and has an excellent outcome
• Some individuals may consult healthcare professionals to rule out sexually-transmitted infections (if any)
• Individuals, in whom it causes cosmetic issues, may undergo a surgical excision or laser therapy to have them removed
• In case of severe infection, complete surgical excision with skin grafting may be necessary

How can Angiokeratoma of Vulva be Prevented?

Currently, there are no specific methods or guidelines to prevent Angiokeratoma of Vulva.

What is the Prognosis of Angiokeratoma of Vulva? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

Angiokeratoma of Vulva is a common, benign (non-cancerous) condition that has an excellent prognosis with appropriate treatment.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Angiokeratoma of Vulva:

• There are two forms of angiokeratoma - localized and generalized. The generalized form is also known as angiokeratoma corporis diffusum. It is usually present with metabolic disorders such as Fabry disease
• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Angiokeratoma of Vulva
• 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