It refers to the inflammation of the skin or mucous membrane of the vulva, which can be acute or chronic. Since the vulva is adjacent to the urethra and anus and is subjected to friction from the legs during movement, inflammation in these areas can spread to the vulva.

bubble_chart Etiology

Mainly due to a lack of attention to vulvar hygiene, it is stimulated by the following factors:

(1) Vaginal secretion stimulation: Increased vaginal secretions or irritation from menstrual blood and sanitary pads, especially during cervicitis and various vaginal inflammations, can lead to increased secretions flowing to the vulva, causing varying degrees of vulvitis.

(2) Other stimulating factors: such as ① direct irritation from the sugar-containing urine of diabetic patients; ② prolonged exposure to urine in patients with urinary incontinence; ③ irritation from feces in patients with fecal fistula during diarrhea or loose stools; ④ intestinal pinworms.

(3) Mixed infections: Due to multiple stimuli, mixed infections often occur, with common pathogenic bacteria being staphylococci, streptococci, and large intestine bacilli.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

During the acute phase, swelling of the vulva, congestion, erosion, and sometimes the formation of ulcers or extensive eczema may be observed. Patients may experience a burning sensation in the vulvar area, cutaneous pruritus, or pain, especially during urination. In severe cases, inguinal lymph nodes may become swollen and tender, with a slight increase in body temperature and leukocytosis.

Diabetic nature of the disease: vulvitis, with reddened and thickened vulvar skin, often appearing brownish and showing scratch marks. Due to the presence of urinary sugar, which promotes fungal growth, concurrent Candida albicans infection is common.

In cases of chronic inflammation, the vulva exhibits cutaneous pruritus and may become lichenified.

bubble_chart Diagnosis

(1) Take a detailed medical history, including the amount and characteristics of secretions, and any special factors. For elderly patients, pay attention to whether there is a history of diabetes; for younger patients, check for pinworms. Understand the patient's hygiene habits.

(3) If necessary, test urine for glucose and stool for parasite eggs.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

(1) Disease Cause Treatment: First, treatment should target the cause, eliminating the disease cause, such as treating diabetes, intestinal pinworms, repairing fistulas, treating cervicitis, and various types of vaginitis. During the acute phase, reduce activity, and those with severe conditions should rest in bed. Pay attention to nutrition and enhance resistance. If necessary, administer oral or intramuscular antibiotics targeting the pathogenic bacteria.

(2) Local Treatment: Sitz baths with 1/5000 potassium permanganate solution, application of Arnebia oil or antibiotic ointment, such as tetracycline or aureomycin ointment.