Differential Diagnosis for Posterior Labia Minora Lesion or Nodule
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Follicular cyst: A small, flesh-colored nodule on the labia minora could be a follicular cyst, which is a common, benign condition resulting from a blocked hair follicle. This condition is often asymptomatic and may resolve on its own.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Vestibular papillomatosis: This condition presents with small, flesh-colored papules on the vulvar vestibule and can extend to the labia minora. It is benign and may cause discomfort or be asymptomatic.
- Molluscum contagiosum: A viral infection that can cause small, flesh-colored, dome-shaped lesions. It's contagious and can be found in the genital area, including the labia minora.
- Sebaceous cyst: A benign cyst that can appear as a small, firm nodule under the skin, which could be flesh-colored and found on the labia minora.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Squamous cell carcinoma: Although less common, any new or changing lesion on the vulva, including the labia minora, warrants consideration of malignancy. Squamous cell carcinoma can present as a small nodule or ulcer and is critical to diagnose early.
- Basal cell carcinoma: Another form of skin cancer that, although rare in the vulvar area, could present as a flesh-colored nodule. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
- Melanoma: Although extremely rare in the vulva, melanoma can present as a new or changing pigmented lesion. Given its aggressive nature, it's essential to consider melanoma in the differential diagnosis of any new vulvar lesion.
Rare Diagnoses
- Vulvar adenocarcinoma: A rare malignancy that could present as a nodule on the labia minora. It originates from the glandular tissue of the vulva.
- Bartholin gland carcinoma: Although very rare, carcinoma of the Bartholin gland can present as a mass or nodule near the labia minora, given the gland's location.
- Kaposi's sarcoma: A rare cancer that can cause lesions on the skin, including the genital area. It's more common in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS.