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

• Genital Psoriasis Vulgaris - Vulva
• Vulvar Psoriasis Vulgaris

What is Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva? (Definition/Background Information)

• Psoriasis is a common, chronic, inflammatory skin condition that occurs due to a genetic predisposition. It causes the epidermis to grow faster than normal, resulting in white, scaly patches on the skin surface on various parts of the body
• There are many forms of psoriasis; one of the common forms is called psoriasis vulgaris. In this type, the signs and symptoms are usually more severe. It can affect various parts of the body, including the vulva (external vaginal opening)
• Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva appears as well-circumscribed red plaques on the surface of the vulva; there may or may not be silvery scales (or flakes) on it
• Sometimes, the presence of lesions on the vulvar skin may be the first signs of Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva development. The signs and symptoms may get better and worse over a period of time (whether treatment is provided or not)
• Currently, Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva is incurable. However, the severity of the condition may be controlled using medications, and the prognosis can be excellent

Who gets Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Psoriasis affects approximately 2-3% of the world's population; Psoriasis Vulgaris is the most common type of psoriasis
• Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva is mainly present in adolescent girls and elderly women over 60 years
• Psoriasis is observed worldwide and affects all races and ethnic groups. Generally, Caucasians have a higher incidence of this skin condition when compared to African Americans

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

Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva risk factors may include:

• Having a family member with psoriasis
• HIV-infected patients
• Lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease

Note: Psoriasis is not a contagious condition; one cannot contract it through direct contact with an affected individual.

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 Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva? (Etiology)

Psoriasis Vulgaris is the most common type of psoriasis. Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva is due to the uncontrollable proliferation of skin cells due to genetic factors. However, the exact cause of psoriasis is still unknown.

• It is believed that a dysfunctional immune system that leads to the abnormal and rapid growth of skin cells may be the causative factor
• It is also thought that environmental factors may contribute to its development
• Psoriasis is not a contagious skin condition, and it does not spread through direct contact. To be clear, Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva is not a sexually transmitted disease

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva?

The signs and symptoms of Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva may include:

• Lesions may be present as well-defined red plaques on the vulva (entrance to the vagina)
• There may or may not be silver scales on the patch
• It can cause severe itchiness, dryness, and pain
• Some individuals have mild presentations, while others may have severe presentations. Cold seasons may aggravate the condition
• Psoriasis Vulgaris of the Vulva is most often seen in association with psoriasis on other skin sites. It may also be seen as the only site of psoriasis

How is Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva may involve:

• Physical examination and a thorough medical history
• Bacterial, yeast, and fungal cultures
• Tissue biopsy: A pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed), and microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis. A tissue biopsy is often performed to rule out other conditions

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 Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva?

Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva can cause complications depending on the severity of the condition. These may include:

• Rarely, infections by bacteria and fungus
• Psychological issues, such as social anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, and depression, may occur in severe cases
• Some individuals may be under severe stress by mistaking the condition for a sexually-transmitted infection

How is Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva Treated?

There is no definitive cure for Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva. Nevertheless, the severity of the signs and symptoms may be controlled using medications. The treatment goals are to control the symptoms and prevent infections and significant complications.

• Corticosteroid  creams may help resolve Psoriasis Vulgaris of the Vulva
• Topical vitamin D creams and ointments are often helpful
• Calcineurin inhibitor creams and ointments (active ingredients pimecrolimus and tacrolimus) are sometimes helpful
• Ultraviolet B phototherapy (UVB) is a helpful treatment. For localized forms of Psoriasis Vulgaris of the Vulva the light can be provided with UVB wavelength lasers or small handheld UV lights
• Oral medications such as steroids and retinoids
• Injectable drugs include immunosuppressive drugs (such as cyclosporine and methotrexate) and biologic drugs (biologic response modifiers)
• Provide counseling therapy for emotional and psychological issues; some women may mistakenly believe that Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva is a sexually transmitted disease

Some medications may have significant side effects, and hence, the physician may recommend the use of a combination of medications.

A few tips for self-care and personal hygiene include:

• Keep the affected skin (region) clean and dry
• Completely avoid scratching the affected areas
• A comfortable, cool bath may help soothe the skin; avoid excessive washing and scrubbing of the skin
• Wear smooth cotton clothes and innerwear
• Use only mild perfumes, soaps, and detergents
• Drink lots of water or fluids

How can Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva be Prevented?

Currently, there are no preventative methods for Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva since the cause is unknown.

• Practice self-care and personal hygiene
• Regular healthcare visits to monitor the condition are advisable

What is the Prognosis of Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva? (Outcome/Resolutions)

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  Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva is a chronic skin disorder. There may be signs of improvement, but then there could be a relapse, too. Often, the symptoms get better and worse over a period of time (sometimes with or without treatment)

• The prognosis is excellent for mild cases; in severe cases, treatment has to be taken for a longer period of time
• Close monitoring and providing appropriate treatment can help enhance the quality of life

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Psoriasis Vulgaris of Vulva:

A differential diagnosis may be considered to eliminate the following conditions:

• Lichen planus
• Squamous cell carcinoma in situ
• Invasive squamous cell carcinoma
• Fixed drug eruption
• Condyloma acuminatum