Differential Diagnosis for Clitoral Swelling
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Physiological swelling: This could be due to normal sexual arousal or other non-pathological conditions. It's the most common and benign reason for clitoral swelling.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Infections (e.g., balanitis, vulvovaginitis): Bacterial, fungal, or viral infections can cause swelling and inflammation of the clitoris and surrounding areas.
- Irritation or allergic reactions: Exposure to irritants, allergens, or certain products can lead to swelling and discomfort.
- Trauma: Physical injury to the clitoris can result in swelling, pain, and potentially other complications.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Malignancy (e.g., squamous cell carcinoma): Although rare, cancer of the clitoris or vulva can present with swelling and must be ruled out to ensure timely treatment.
- Necrotizing fasciitis: A severe, life-threatening infection that requires immediate medical attention. While rare, it's crucial not to miss this diagnosis due to its high mortality rate.
- Bartholin gland abscess or cyst: While these conditions primarily affect the labia, they can cause swelling and discomfort in the general area, including the clitoris, and require proper management to prevent complications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Neurofibromatosis: A genetic disorder that can lead to the growth of tumors on nerve tissue, potentially causing swelling in various areas, including the clitoris.
- Lymphedema: Swelling caused by impaired lymph drainage, which can affect any part of the body, including the genital area, though it's rare in the context of clitoral swelling.
- Angioedema: A condition characterized by the rapid swelling of the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, mucosa, and submucosal tissues, which can affect the genital area, including the clitoris, though it's uncommon.