Differential Diagnosis for Non-STD Vaginal Bumps
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Vulvar cysts: These are common, benign lesions that can appear as bumps on the vulva. They are often filled with fluid or semi-solid material and can be caused by a blocked gland or duct.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Folliculitis: An inflammation of the hair follicles, which can cause bumps or pus-filled lesions on the vulva.
- Vulvar acne: Similar to acne on other parts of the body, vulvar acne can cause bumps, pimples, or blackheads in the vulvar area.
- Keratosis pilaris: A harmless condition that causes small, rough bumps on the skin, often on the vulva, thighs, or buttocks.
- Vulvar dermatitis: An inflammation of the vulvar skin, which can cause bumps, redness, and itching.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Squamous cell carcinoma: A type of skin cancer that can appear as a bump or lesion on the vulva. Although rare, it is crucial to rule out this diagnosis due to its potential severity.
- Melanoma: A type of skin cancer that can appear as a new or changing mole on the vulva. Early detection is critical for effective treatment.
- Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN): A precancerous condition that can cause bumps or lesions on the vulva. If left untreated, it can progress to invasive cancer.
Rare Diagnoses
- Vulvar syringoma: A rare, benign tumor that can cause small, bumps or lesions on the vulva.
- Vulvar neurofibromas: Rare, benign tumors that can cause bumps or lesions on the vulva, often associated with neurofibromatosis type 1.
- Vulvar lymphangioma: A rare, benign condition that can cause bumps or lesions on the vulva, often due to abnormal lymphatic vessel development.