What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)
- Acrochordon of Vulva
- Skin Tags of Vulva
- Vulvar Fibroepithelial Polyp
What is Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva? (Definition/Background Information)
- Fibroepithelial Polyp (FEP) of Vulva is a benign tumor that has its origin in the vulvar skin and its appearance is similar to a polyp
- The condition is relatively rare and is generally observed in adult women. No ethnic or racial preference is observed in the occurrence of this type of tumor
- Generally, the tumors in FEP are solitary, but could occasionally occur in a cluster. Additionally, while the typical size of this type of tumor is small, large-sized tumors have also been reported
- Currently, no risk factors are known for a woman developing Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva. Although no causative factor is reported for this condition, it has to be emphasized that research has not established a link between FEP and human papilloma virus (HPV) infection, nor is FEP sexually-transmitted
- The tumor is usually pink in color and appears as a non-itchy nodule. A healthcare provider might employ diagnostic tests such as physical examination of the tumor, observing the tumor under ultraviolet light to ascertain changes in pigmentation, tissue biopsy, etc., to arrive at an accurate diagnosis
- As mentioned previously, FEP is a benign condition and a majority of women do not require any treatment. However, if the condition is causing physical discomfort or anxiety to the patient, or if a complication occurs wherein the polyp ulcerates and bleeds causing infections, surgery may be recommended
- Even when treatment is required, the prognosis for Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva is considered excellent. No malignant transformation of the condition has been reported thus far
Who gets Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva? (Age and Sex Distribution)
- Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva is a relatively rare condition
- It is generally observed in adult women
- FEP of Vulva does not particularly affect a specific race or ethnic group
What are the Risk Factors for Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva? (Predisposing Factors)
- Currently, no risk factors have been identified for Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva
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 Vulva? (Etiology)
- The exact cause of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva is unknown. Research is currently being undertaken to identify the relevant causal factors.
- However, it must be noted that:
- Numerous studies have not found a link between the condition and HPV infection
- Vulvar FEP is neither a sexually-transmitted infection nor a contagious condition
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva?
The signs and symptoms of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva are generally insignificant. The characteristic features of the tumor include:
- Typically, a solitary, pink nodule on the vulva is seen; although, multiple nodules have also been reported
- The nodule does not hurt or induce an urge to scratch
- A nodule of 2 mm to about 5 cm in diameter (occasionally, the tumors are known to grow reach 20 cm in size)
Note: When polyps are larger than 5 cm, they are also known as Giant Fibroepithelial Stromal Polyps.
How is Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva Diagnosed?
A healthcare provider might employ the following to arrive at an accurate diagnosis of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva:
- A physical examination of the polyp
- Assessment of a patient’s medical history
- Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the skin is examined using ultraviolet light to look for changes in pigmentation of skin
- Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnification lens
- Tissue biopsy: A biopsy of the polyp is usually performed 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 Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva?
Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva is a benign skin lesion and it generally does not cause any complications. However, occasionally the following may be observed:
- A patient may experience pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse
- There may be anxiety and stress because of the above discomfort
- Lesions could bleed and ulcerate, resulting in superimposed infections (bacterial or fungal)
- Lesions might recur after surgical treatment
- Some patients might be misinformed that Vulvar FEP is a sexually transmitted disease, causing stress and anxiety
How is Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva Treated?
In a majority of cases of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva, no treatment may be necessary, unless it causes discomfort.
- When treatment is warranted, a complete surgical excision cures the condition
- Some women may require reassurance that FEP of Vulva is not a sexually-transmitted disease
- Support to help with stress and anxiety
- Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important and encouraged
How can Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva be Prevented?
Since the exact cause of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva is not known, there are no reported methods to prevent the condition from occurring.
What is the Prognosis of Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva? (Outcomes/Resolutions)
Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva is a benign tumor and the prognosis is excellent, even when treatment is required.
Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Fibroepithelial Polyp of Vulva:
- There are no studies suggesting that oily foods and chocolate-based products have any influence on Vulvar Fibroepithelial Polyp formation
- Strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate skin conditions and therefore, care must be taken to agents that could potentially worsen FEP of Vulva
- Maintaining personal hygiene could prevent Vulvar FEP from getting infected
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