Differential Diagnosis for A.L.
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Vulvar vestibular papillomatosis: This condition is characterized by multiple, small, flesh-colored papules on the vulvar vestibule, which is consistent with A.L.'s symptoms. It is a benign condition and does not typically cause symptoms such as pain, itching, or discharge.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Genital warts: Although A.L. had a recent negative STI screening, it's possible that the warts may have developed since the screening or were not detected. Genital warts can be flesh-colored and may not cause symptoms.
- Molluscum contagiosum: This is a viral infection that can cause small, flesh-colored bumps on the vulvar area. It is typically spread through skin-to-skin contact and may not cause symptoms.
- Folliculitis: This is an inflammation of the hair follicles, which can cause small bumps or papules on the vulvar area. It may be caused by friction, shaving, or bacterial infection.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN): Although A.L. had an abnormal Pap smear in the past, it's essential to rule out VIN, which can cause visible lesions on the vulvar area. VIN is a precancerous condition that requires prompt treatment.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This is a type of skin cancer that can cause lesions on the vulvar area. Although it is rare, it's crucial to rule out this diagnosis, especially given A.L.'s history of an abnormal Pap smear.
Rare Diagnoses
- Lichen simplex chronicus: This is a rare condition that can cause thickened, scaly skin on the vulvar area, which may appear as bumps or papules.
- Vulvar syringoma: This is a rare, benign condition that can cause small, flesh-colored bumps on the vulvar area.
- Neurofibromas: These are rare, benign tumors that can cause bumps or papules on the vulvar area, especially in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1.