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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.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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