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Last updated: September 28, 2025View editorial policy

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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.

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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