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

• Genital Lentiginosis - Vulva
• Vulvar Lentiginosis
• Vulvar Melanosis

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

• Lentiginosis of Vulva is a benign condition, in which there are darkly pigmented macules on the vulva (body part around the vagina). These macules may be present for years, without much change in their size or color
• Currently, no causative or risk factors have been identified for Lentiginosis of Vulva. Hence, it is also not possible to prevent the condition
• However, the condition is non-infectious and is not transmitted through sexual activities
• These lesions are harmless and generally no treatment is required, although it may pose cosmetic concerns for some individuals. The prognosis Lentiginosis of Vulva is excellent with appropriate treatment (when necessary)

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

• Lentiginosis of Vulva is a condition that affects girls and women
• The condition can occur worldwide and no geographical preference is seen
• Females of all racial and ethnic background may be affected

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

• The risk factors for Lentiginosis of Vulva are unknown

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 Lentiginosis of Vulva? (Etiology)

The exact cause of development of Lentiginosis of Vulva is unknown. The darkly-pigmented macules are due to the presence of increased melanin pigment on the skin or mucus membrane.

• The condition is not contagious and does not spread from one individual to another; it is also not a sexually-transmitted infection
• There is no definitive proof that certain diets play a role in its development

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Lentiginosis of Vulva?

Lentiginosis of Vulva does not cause any significant signs and symptoms. However, their appearance may be described as:

• The presence of small, dark, pigmented spots or macules; the macules may be solitary or multiple (frequently)
• The color of the macules may be dark brown or black; the lesion may be irregularly pigmented
• They are present on the vulva (external vaginal opening)
• The lesions may vary in size from 0.5 to 1 cm
• Generally, the lesions do not ulcerate and bleed

How is Lentiginosis of Vulva Diagnosed?

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

• A thorough physical examination and a complete medical history are very crucial. A diagnosis of the condition may be arrived at by visually examining the macules
• Dermoscopy: Dermoscopy is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• A tissue biopsy of the lesion is typically performed to confirm the diagnosis, and most importantly, to help rule out more serious conditions, such as melanoma, a type of skin cancer. 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 Lentiginosis of Vulva?

No significant complications have been reported due to Lentiginosis of Vulva.

• However, some individuals may develop stress and anxiety fearing that the condition is a sexually-transmitted infection
• Some individuals may have concerns about their appearance and in such cases, a surgical excision may be necessary

How is Lentiginosis of Vulva Treated?

Generally, there is no treatment required for Lentiginosis of Vulva, since it is a benign and harmless condition with no significant signs and symptoms or complications. In some cases, the healthcare provider may:

• Provide reassurance and support to help the individual with stress and anxiety
• The healthcare professional may dispel fears that the condition is not due to a sexually-transmitted infection
• Individuals, in whom it causes significant cosmetic issues, may undergo a surgical excision or laser therapy to have them removed

How can Lentiginosis of Vulva be Prevented?

• Currently, there are no specific methods or guidelines to prevent Lentiginosis of Vulva
• Nevertheless, individuals with the condition should be serially photographed on a periodic basis and monitored over time, in order to document any changes (in size and color) to the lesion

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

• Lentiginosis of Vulva is a benign (non-cancerous) condition that has an excellent prognosis
• It may cause anxiety in some individuals; however, it is not a sexually-transmitted disease and there is no definitive evidence that it leads to melanoma

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Lentiginosis of Vulva:

•   The term “lentiginosis” means the presence of multiple pigmented spots (or lentigines)
• A differential diagnosis may be considered to eliminate the following conditions:
  • Melanoma in situ
  • Squamous cell carcinoma in situ        
  • Fixed drug eruption
  • Syphilis
• The presence of dirt on the body is not a causative factor for the condition