Vulvar Dermatitis: Diagnosis and Management

Candidiasis, herpes simplex virus, bacterial vaginosis, irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema/lichen simplex chronicus are often misdiagnosed, mistreated, and underrecognized causes of vulvar discomfort. Vulvar discomfort is frequently encountered in dermatology, gynecology, urology, and primary practice. A lack of ownership among specialties often leads to significant knowledge gaps among these providers and delays in care. Clinical symptoms of vulvar dermatitis can overlap, posing a diagnostic challenge. Herein, we provide a tool to guide the diagnostic algorithm for vulvar dermatitis, along with detailed diagnostic and treatment recommendations.