Differential Diagnosis for Chronic Vaginal Itching
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: This condition is characterized by thinning of the vulvar skin, leading to itching, burning, and pain. It is a common cause of chronic vaginal itching and has a significant impact on quality of life.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Vaginal Yeast Infections (Candidiasis): A common cause of vaginal itching, especially in women with diabetes, those who are immunocompromised, or those using antibiotics.
- Bacterial Vaginosis: An imbalance of the normal vaginal flora, leading to itching, burning, and abnormal discharge.
- Atrophic Vaginitis: Thinning and drying of the vaginal walls due to decreased estrogen levels, often seen in postmenopausal women.
- Contact Dermatitis: An allergic reaction or irritation to soaps, douches, or other products used in the genital area.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN): A precancerous condition that can cause itching, burning, and pain. Early detection is crucial to prevent progression to invasive cancer.
- Lichen Planus: An autoimmune condition that can affect the vulva, causing itching, burning, and pain.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A type of skin cancer that can occur on the vulva, often presenting with itching, burning, and a visible lesion.
Rare Diagnoses
- Vulvar Vestibulitis: A condition characterized by chronic pain and itching in the vulvar vestibule, often associated with inflammation and scarring.
- Eczema (Dyshidrotic Eczema): A type of eczema that can affect the vulva, causing itching, burning, and small blisters.
- Psoriasis: A chronic skin condition that can affect the vulva, causing itching, redness, and scaly lesions.
- Vulvar Crohn's Disease: A rare condition where Crohn's disease affects the vulva, causing itching, burning, and pain, often with visible lesions or fistulas.