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

• Eccrine Syringoma of Vulva
• Vulvar Syringoma

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

• Syringoma of Vulva is a benign skin tumor of a type of sweat gland (known as the eccrine sweat glands; the other types of sweat glands are apocrine and sebaceous) of the female reproductive part known as the vulva
• This kind of tumor is relatively widespread and presents as a painless nodule. The condition is common in young adult women
• Although some risk factors have been reported for Vulvar Syringoma (such as uncontrolled diabetes, a family history of the condition, etc.), the exact cause for the condition is still being researched upon
• If the painless nodule bothers a woman, she might opt for treatment of the condition. However, most women with the condition do not need treatment
• When treatment is warranted or opted for, the nodule is removed by surgery. With suitable treatment, the prognosis for Vulvar Syringoma is reported to be excellent

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

• Although Syringoma of Vulva could occur at any age, it is normally seen in young adults. The tumor is also commonly present during puberty
• Women of all racial and ethnic background may be affected; however, the prevalence of Vulvar Syringoma is higher in women of Asian descent and women with darker skin
• The tumor is not specific to any one geographical location

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

The risk factors for Syringoma of Vulva include the following:

• A positive family history of Vulvar Syringoma
• Individuals with Down syndrome
• Having a poorly-controlled diabetes

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 Syringoma of Vulva? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of development of Syringoma of Vulva is unknown and research is underway to identify relevant causal factors
• However, it must be stated that the condition is non-infectious. Vulvar Syringoma is not caused by sexual transmission (or by direct physical contact) from one individual to another

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Syringoma of Vulva?

The signs and symptoms of Syringoma of Vulva may include:

• Syringoma of Vulva typically occurs as a single, raised nodule on the skin of the vulva
• It can range in size from a few millimeters to a centimeter
• The skin over the nodules may have a reddish discoloration
• The nodule is usually painless and non-itchy. They are mostly well-demarcated and firm to touch

How is Syringoma of Vulva Diagnosed?

A healthcare provider may require the following to diagnose Syringoma of Vulva:

• 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
• Skin biopsy: A skin biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination
• Differential diagnosis of other tumors, such as basal cell carcinoma and eccrine hidrocystoma of skin, should be ruled out; hence, biopsy is an important diagnostic tool

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 Syringoma of Vulva?

Syringoma of Vulva is a benign tumor that does not cause any significant complications. However, the following factors may be a cause for concern:

• Uncomfortable of painful sexual intercourse in some individuals
• Recurrence of the tumor on incomplete surgical excision

How is Syringoma of Vulva Treated?

The treatment of Syringoma of Vulva may involve the following:

• In a majority of cases, removal of the nodule is not necessary, unless it becomes bothersome
• When required or opted for, a complete surgical excision cures the condition
• Once the tumor is completely removed, it usually does not recur. However, an incomplete removal may result in a recurrence
• Cauterization (burning-off) of the tumor using a CO2 laser is an alternative to surgical removal of the tumor

In most cases, Syringoma of Vulva is removed to confirm the diagnosis and to eliminate the possibility of other malignant skin tumors.

How can Syringoma of Vulva be Prevented?

Currently, there are no known methods to prevent the occurrence of Syringoma of Vulva.

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

The prognosis for Syringoma of Vulva is excellent with appropriate treatment, since it is a benign tumor.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Syringoma of Vulva:

• Some individuals believe that greasy foods could cause tumors. However, no scientific proof exists to show that high-fat or chocolate-based food could cause Vulvar Syringoma
• It might help the skin in general if one avoids vigorous cleaning with harsh chemicals or soaps
• Additionally, although a having dirty skin is not considered a causative factor for the tumor, keeping the skin clean could help prevent aggravation of the condition