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

• Hirsutoid Papillomas of Vulvae
• Micropapillomatosis Labialis
• VP (Vestibular Papillomatosis)

What is Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva? (Definition/Background Information)

• Vestibular Papillomatosis (VP) of Vulva is a benign tumor that occurs in the vestibule of the vulva. On morphological examination, the tumor has papillary configuration. It is a tumor of the squamous epithelium of vulva (external vaginal part)
• The tumors are usually multiple, but may be solitary. They are generally small, slow-growing, and are pinkish in appearance. Vulvar Vestibular Papillomatosis are typically seen in adult women
• The risk factors and cause of Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva is unknown. There is also no link of the condition to human papilloma virus (HPV) infection and it is not transmitted sexually
• In a majority of cases, no treatment in necessary, unless it causes worrisome symptoms in the individual. A simple surgical excision of the tumor is considered curative. The prognosis for Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva is excellent with suitable treatment

Who gets Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva is an uncommon condition that is generally present in adult women. In rare cases, the tumors are observed to be congenital in nature
• Studies have shown that the condition is present in approximately 1% of adult women
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected

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

• Currently, no risk factors have been identified for Vestibular Papillomatosis 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 Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva? (Etiology)

The cause of development of Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva is unknown. Research is currently being undertaken to identify the relevant causal factors.

• Many studies have shown that there is no relation of the condition to HPV infection
• Vulvar Vestibular Papillomatosis is not a sexually-transmitted infection that spreads from one individual to another

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva?

The signs and symptoms of Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva are generally insignificant. The characteristic features of the tumor include:

• It usually occurs on the vestibule of the vulva as multiple nodules (hence the usage of the term papillomatosis); but, it may be solitary too (in which case it is associated with the term papilloma)
• It is a slow-growing and soft-to-touch tumor
• It is usually painless and non-itchy
• The tumor ranges in size from 2 mm to about 1 cm
• These skin lesions are pink in color

How is Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva may involve the following:

• 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
• Tissue biopsy: A tissue biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The 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 Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva?

Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva is a benign skin lesion and it generally does not cause any complications. However, in some cases the following may be observed:

• There may be pain and discomfort during sex causing emotional stress
• Recurrence of the genital lesions after surgery is observed in some women
• Some individuals may develop stress and anxiety fearing that the condition is a sexually-transmitted infection

How is Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva Treated?

The treatment of Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva may involve the following:

• In a majority of cases, removal of the tumor is not necessary, unless it causes bothersome signs and symptoms
• The treatment is a complete surgical excision, which results in a cure
• Some women may require reassurance and support to help with stress and anxiety
• The healthcare professional may dispel fears that the condition is not due to a sexually-transmitted infection
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important and encouraged

How can Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva be Prevented?

Currently, there are no known methods to prevent Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva occurrence.

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

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

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva:

• Some consider Vestibular Papillomatosis of Vulva to be a female equivalent of pearly penile papules, which are found in males
• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Vulvar Vestibular Papilloma formation
• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition
• 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
• Different scientists have described the condition under different names, such as:
  • Hirsutoid Papillomas of Vulvae
  • Micropapillomatosis Labialis
  • Squamous Vestibular Micropapilloma
  • Vestibular Papillae
  • Vulvar Squamous Papillomatosis
• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Vulvar Vestibular Papilloma formation
• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition
• 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