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Operational Obstetrics & Gynecology

Vulvar Dystrophy

Lichen Sclerosis

Mixed Dystrophy

Vulvar dystrophy is the abnormal growth of the skin of the vulva, in a benign but symptom-provoking manner.

There are two forms of vulvar dystrophy:

Lichen sclerosis, in which the skin of the vulva is too thin, and
Hypertrophic vulvar dystrophy, in which the skin of the vulva is growing too thick.

A third form, mixed dystrophy, is a combination of both.

Hypertrophic Dystrophy

Watch a 5-minute video showing how to perform a vulvar biopsy*

Both forms are associated with vulvar itching (pruritus) and burning, not responsive to anti-fungals, antibiotics or other creams or salves. Both can cause a white discoloration of the skin.

While very experienced examiners may be able to predict which form of vulvar dystrophy is present in a patient, based on observation alone, a vulvar biopsy is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis.

*This video is an added feature, provided by the Brookside Associates Medical Education Division. It was not present in the original edition.

Home · Introduction · Medical Support of Women in Field Environments · The Prisoner of War Experience · Routine Care · Pap Smears · Human Papilloma Virus · Contraception · Birth Control Pills · Vulvar Disease · Vaginal Discharge · Abnormal Bleeding · Menstrual Problems · Abdominal Pain · Urination Problems · Menopause · Breast Problems · Sexual Assault · Normal Pregnancy · Abnormal Pregnancy · Normal Labor and Delivery · Problems During Labor and Delivery · Care of the Newborn

Bureau of Medicine and Surgery
Department of the Navy
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Operational Obstetrics & Gynecology - 2nd Edition
The Health Care of Women in Military Settings
CAPT Michael John Hughey, MC, USNR
NAVMEDPUB 6300-2C
January 1, 2000

This web version of Operational Obstetrics & Gynecology is provided by The Brookside Associates Medical Education Division. It contains original contents from the official US Navy NAVMEDPUB 6300-2C, but has been reformatted for web access and includes advertising and links that were not present in the original version. This web version has not been approved by the Department of the Navy or the Department of Defense. The presence of any advertising on these pages does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service by either the Department of Defense or the Brookside Associates. The Brookside Associates is a private organization, not affiliated with the United States Department of Defense. All material in this version is unclassified.

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