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Differential Diagnosis for Pruritus and Burning Sensation along the Vulva

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: A chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause intense pruritus and burning sensation, especially at night. The negative bacterial swabs support this diagnosis, as it is not caused by a bacterial infection.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Vulvodynia: A condition characterized by chronic pain, burning, or discomfort in the vulva, without an identifiable cause. The symptoms worsening at night are consistent with vulvodynia.
  • Candidiasis (Yeasts): Although the bacterial swabs are negative, a fungal infection like candidiasis can cause pruritus and burning sensation. It's possible that the swabs were not tested for fungi.
  • Contact Dermatitis: An allergic or irritant reaction to soaps, detergents, or other substances can cause pruritus and burning sensation in the vulvar area.
  • Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): A chronic skin condition that can cause pruritus, burning, and discomfort in the vulvar area, especially if the patient has a history of atopy.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Invasive Cervical Cancer or Vulvar Cancer: Although rare, it's essential to rule out malignancy, especially if the patient has a history of abnormal Pap smears or other risk factors.
  • Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): A viral infection that can cause painful blisters, pruritus, and burning sensation in the vulvar area.
  • Syphilis: A bacterial infection that can cause a range of symptoms, including pruritus and burning sensation in the vulvar area, especially in the secondary stage.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Lichen Planus: A chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause pruritus, burning sensation, and discomfort in the vulvar area.
  • Psoriasis: A chronic skin condition that can cause pruritus, burning sensation, and discomfort in the vulvar area, especially if the patient has a history of psoriasis.
  • Neurological Disorders (e.g., Neuropathic Pain): Certain neurological disorders can cause chronic pain, burning sensation, or discomfort in the vulvar area, without an identifiable cause.

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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