Genital sores (female)
Alternative names:
sores - on the genitals (female)
Definition:
Any sore or lesion that appears on the external female genitalia or in the vagina.
Considerations:
Sores or lesions on the female genitalia may have many causes. Often, the lesions of most concern are those seen with sexually transmitted diseases (STD). Venereal warts, syphilis, genital herpes, chancroid, molluscum contagiosum, and granuloma inguinale are STDs that cause visible and fairly classic appearing lesions.
Precancerous changes of the vulva (vulvar dysplasia) may appear as white red or brown patches on the vulva and are often accompanied by itching. The vulva can also develop skin cancers such as melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Non-sexually transmitted diseases may also produce lesions on the genitalia. In young girls (before puberty), nonspecific vulvovaginitis, atopic dermatitis, and contact dermatitis are common causes of genital lesions. Lichen planus, seborrheic dermatitis, and vitiligo are less common causes. . Rarely, a medical illness can cause genital lesions as one of its symptoms (Crohn's disease).
Because genital lesions (genital sores) often adversely affect a person's self image, many individuals do not seek proper medical care. These lesions may be caused by a malignancy or a sexually transmitted disease, and in every case should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Itching, painful urination or painful sexual intercourse often accompany genital lesions which can appear anywhere on the vulva (external female genital area).
Common causes:
Note: There may be other causes of genital sores on a woman or girl. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as exact location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for genital sores, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.
Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
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