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Deutsches Arzteblatt International Feb 2020In Germany, 17-23% of the population suffers from chronic itching of the skin; in 5-10% of cases, the female genitalia are affected, specifically, the vulva. Vulvar... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
In Germany, 17-23% of the population suffers from chronic itching of the skin; in 5-10% of cases, the female genitalia are affected, specifically, the vulva. Vulvar pruritus is thus a common symptom that often markedly impairs the affected women's quality of life.
METHODS
This review is based on pertinent publications that were retrieved by a selective search in MEDLINE/PubMed for articles on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of vul- var pruritus. The search terms were (in German and English) "vulvärer Juckreiz," "pruritus vulvae," and "genital itch," alone and in combination with "Behandlung," "Therapie," or "treat- ment."
RESULTS
The most common cause of vulvar pruritus is vulvo- vaginal candidiasis followed by chronic dermatoses, such as lichen sclerosus and vulvar eczema. Especially in refractory cases, an invasive or preinvasive lesion such as squamous epithelial dysplasia (VIN, vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia) should be borne in mind in the differential diagnosis. Rarer causes include infection, atrophy, and vulvodynia. The essen- tial elements of treatment are topical/oral antimycotic drugs and high-potency glucocorticoids, along with consistently ap- plied, basic moisturizing care and the avoidance of potential triggering factors.
CONCLUSION
As vulvar pruritus has multiple causes, standard- ization of its diagnostic evaluation and treatment would be l efficacy and to meet the diverse needs of women who suffer from this condition.
Topics: Female; Germany; Humans; Pruritus Vulvae
PubMed: 32181734
DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.2020.0126 -
International Journal of Molecular... Jul 2021Anaphylaxis is a severe, acute, life-threatening multisystem allergic reaction resulting from the release of a plethora of mediators from mast cells culminating in... (Review)
Review
Anaphylaxis is a severe, acute, life-threatening multisystem allergic reaction resulting from the release of a plethora of mediators from mast cells culminating in serious respiratory, cardiovascular and mucocutaneous manifestations that can be fatal. Medications, foods, latex, exercise, hormones (progesterone), and clonal mast cell disorders may be responsible. More recently, novel syndromes such as delayed reactions to red meat and hereditary alpha tryptasemia have been described. Anaphylaxis manifests as sudden onset urticaria, pruritus, flushing, erythema, angioedema (lips, tongue, airways, periphery), myocardial dysfunction (hypovolemia, distributive or mixed shock and arrhythmias), rhinitis, wheezing and stridor. Vomiting, diarrhea, scrotal edema, uterine cramps, vaginal bleeding, urinary incontinence, dizziness, seizures, confusion, and syncope may occur. The traditional (or classical) pathway is mediated via T cells, Th2 cytokines (such as IL-4 and 5), B cell production of IgE and subsequent crosslinking of the high affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI) on mast cells and basophils by IgE-antigen complexes, culminating in mast cell and basophil degranulation. Degranulation results in the release of preformed mediators (histamine, heparin, tryptase, chymase, carboxypeptidase, cathepsin G and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and of de novo synthesized ones such as lipid mediators (cysteinyl leukotrienes), platelet activating factor (PAF), cytokines and growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Of these, histamine, tryptase, cathepsin G, TNF-α, LTC, PAF and VEGF can increase vascular permeability. Recent data suggest that mast cell-derived histamine and PAF can activate nitric oxide production from endothelium and set into motion a signaling cascade that leads to dilatation of blood vessels and dysfunction of the endothelial barrier. The latter, characterized by the opening of adherens junctions, leads to increased capillary permeability and fluid extravasation. These changes contribute to airway edema, hypovolemia, and distributive shock, with potentially fatal consequences. In this review, besides mechanisms (endotypes) underlying IgE-mediated anaphylaxis, we also provide a brief overview of IgG-, complement-, contact system-, cytokine- and mast cell-mediated reactions that can result in phenotypes resembling IgE-mediated anaphylaxis. Such classifications can lead the way to precision medicine approaches to the management of this complex disease.
Topics: Anaphylaxis; Animals; Capillary Permeability; Endothelium, Vascular; Gap Junctions; Humans; Inflammation
PubMed: 34360549
DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157785 -
Obstetrics and Gynecology Jul 2020Vulvar skin disorders include a variety of inflammatory conditions of the vulva that also may affect the extragenital area. Pruritus and pain are two of the most common...
Vulvar skin disorders include a variety of inflammatory conditions of the vulva that also may affect the extragenital area. Pruritus and pain are two of the most common presenting symptoms in vulvar clinics (). Vulvovaginal symptoms often are chronic and can adversely affect sexual function and sense of well-being. The purpose of this Practice Bulletin is to provide updated diagnostic and management recommendations for the most common vulvar skin conditions associated with inflammation: contact dermatitis, lichen simplex chronicus, lichen sclerosus, and lichen planus. Other vulvovaginal disorders such as vaginitis, vulvar low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and vulvar high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (previously termed vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia), genitourinary syndrome of menopause (vulvovaginal atrophy), and vulvar pain (vulvodynia) are addressed in other documents from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ().
Topics: Dermatitis; Female; Gynecology; Humans; Lichen Planus; Obstetrics; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Skin Neoplasms; Societies, Medical; United States; Vulvar Diseases
PubMed: 32590724
DOI: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000003944 -
Probiotics and Antimicrobial Proteins Oct 2023Vaginitis is a common problem in women. Candida albicans is responsible for more than 85% of vaginal fungal infections. The aim of this study was to compare the effects... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
Vaginitis is a common problem in women. Candida albicans is responsible for more than 85% of vaginal fungal infections. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of probiotic and fluconazole on the treatment and recurrence of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). This triple-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted on 80 married women, aged 18-49 years, with VVC, as confirmed by clinical and laboratory diagnosis. The participants were allocated into two groups using blocked randomization method. The fluconazole-treated group received a single dose of fluconazole (150 mg) supplemented with 30 placebo capsules of probiotic, and the probiotic-treated group got 30 probiotic capsules containing 1 × 10 CFU/g LA-5 with 1 fluconazole placebo capsule. The samples were taken from patients to evaluate the vaginal pH and microbiological tests before, 30-35 days, and 60-65 days after starting the treatment. The signs and symptoms were assessed before the intervention and the first and second follow-ups. Chi-square, Fisher's exact, independent t, and ANCOVA tests were then used for data analysis. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.127) in the frequency of negative culture 30-35 days after starting the treatment, but the frequency of negative culture 60-65 days after starting treatment in the fluconazole group was significantly higher than that of the probiotic group (p = 0.016). The abnormal discharge and vulvovaginal erythema in the first and second follow-ups and also pruritus in the second follow-up in the fluconazole group were significantly lower than those in the probiotic group (p < 0.05). There was, however, no statistically significant difference in burning, frequent urination, dysuria, and dyspareunia between the groups (p > 0.05). Lactobacillus acidophilus supplementation had an effect similar to that of fluconazole in treating most symptoms of VVC, but it was less effective than the latter in preventing recurrence. Trial Registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT): IRCT20110826007418N5. Date of registration: 3 March 2021; URL: https://en.irct.ir/trial/50819 ; Date of first registration: 10 March 2021.
Topics: Humans; Female; Fluconazole; Candidiasis, Vulvovaginal; Antifungal Agents; Capsules; Iran; Probiotics
PubMed: 36198994
DOI: 10.1007/s12602-022-09997-3 -
Journal of Lower Genital Tract Disease Apr 2015Emphysematous vaginitis is a rare condition, characterized by the presence of multiple gas-filled cysts in the vaginal and/or exocervical mucosa. Although its etiology...
BACKGROUND
Emphysematous vaginitis is a rare condition, characterized by the presence of multiple gas-filled cysts in the vaginal and/or exocervical mucosa. Although its etiology is not completely understood, it is self-limited, with a benign clinical course. Vaginal discharge, sometimes bloody, and pruritus are the most common symptoms. Chronic and acute inflammation can be found, and diseases that impair the immune system and pregnancy have been associated with this condition.
CASE REPORT
A 48-year-old postmenopausal woman, with a history of hysterectomy with several comorbidities, presented with a 4-month history of bloody discharge and vulvar pruritus. Examination showed multiple cystic lesions, 1 to 5 mm, occupying the posterior and right lateral vaginal walls. Speculum examination produced crepitus. Vaginal wet mount was normal, except for diminished lactobacilli; results of Trichomonas vaginalis DNA test and vaginal cultures were negative. Lugol's iodine applied to the vagina was taken up by the intact lesions. Biopsy result showed typical features of emphysematous vaginitis.
CONCLUSIONS
This is an unusual entity, presenting with common gynecological complaints, and both physicians and pathologists should be aware to prevent misdiagnosis and overtreatment.
Topics: Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Vagina; Vaginal Discharge; Vaginitis
PubMed: 25551590
DOI: 10.1097/LGT.0000000000000092 -
Frontiers in Pharmacology 2023We aimed to systematically evaluate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of adverse events associated with the adaptogens and antidepressant drug interactions in...
We aimed to systematically evaluate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of adverse events associated with the adaptogens and antidepressant drug interactions in a retrospective chart review. A total of 1,816 reports of adverse events were evaluated. Cases were included in the analysis if the pharmacoepidemiological analysis showed the presence of a high probability of a causal relationship between an adaptogen and antidepressant interaction and the occurrence of adverse events. The following data were extracted from the reports: age, sex, antidepressant, plant products containing adaptogens, other concomitant medications, and clinical consequences of the interactions and their possible mechanisms. Adaptogens were involved in 9% of adverse events associated with the concomitant use of antidepressants and other preparations. We identified 30 reports in which side effects presented a causal relationship with the use of antidepressants and adaptogens. Here, we present the list of adaptogens with the corresponding antidepressants and the side effects caused by their interactions: : reboxetine (testicle pain and ejaculatory dysfunctions), sertraline (severe diarrhea), escitalopram (myalgia, epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, restless legs syndrome, and severe cough), and paroxetine (generalized myalgia, ophthalmalgia, and ocular hypertension); : duloxetine (upper gastrointestinal bleeding), paroxetine (epistaxis), sertraline (vaginal hemorrhage), and agomelatine (irritability, agitation, headache, and dizziness); : bupropion (arthralgia and thrombocytopenia), amitriptyline (delirium), and fluoxetine (dysuria); : citalopram (generalized pruritus), escitalopram (galactorrhea), and trazodone (psoriasis relapse); : mianserin (arrhythmias), mirtazapine (edema of lower limbs and myalgia), and fluoxetine (gynecomastia); : mianserin (restless legs syndrome), paroxetine (gynecomastia and mastalgia), and venlafaxine (hyponatremia); : agomelatine (back pain and hyperhidrosis) and moclobemide (myocardial infarction); : duloxetine (back pain); : sertraline (upper gastrointestinal bleeding); : mianserin (restless legs syndrome); and : bupropion (seizures). Clinicians should monitor the adverse events associated with the concomitant use of adaptogens and antidepressant drugs in patients with mental disorders. Aggregation of side effects and pharmacokinetic interactions (inhibition of CYP and p-glycoprotein) between those medicines may result in clinically significant adverse events.
PubMed: 37829299
DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1271776 -
Pharmaceutical Research Feb 2023Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is an opportunistic and endogenous infection caused by a fungus of the Candida genus, which can cause pruritus, dysuria, vulvar edema,... (Review)
Review
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is an opportunistic and endogenous infection caused by a fungus of the Candida genus, which can cause pruritus, dysuria, vulvar edema, fissures and maceration of the vulva. The treatment of vaginal candidiasis is carried out mainly by antifungal agents of azole and polyene classes; however, fungal resistance cases have been often observed. For this reason, new therapeutic agents such as essential oils, probiotics and antimicrobial peptides are being investigated, which can be combined with conventional drugs. Local administration of antimicrobials has also been considered to allow greater control of drug delivery and reduce or avoid undesirable systemic adverse effects. Conventional dosage forms such as creams and ointments result in reduced residence time in the mucosa and non-sustained and variable drug delivery. Therefore, advanced solid formulations such as intravaginal rings, vaginal films, sponges and nanofibers have been purposed. In these systems, polymers in different ratios are combined aiming to achieve a specific drug release profile and high mucoadhesion. Overall, a more porous matrix structure leads to a higher rate of drug release and mucoadhesion. The advantages, limitations and technological aspects of each dosage form are discussed in detail in this review.
Topics: Female; Humans; Candidiasis, Vulvovaginal; Antifungal Agents; Candida; Drug Delivery Systems; Drug Compounding; Candida albicans
PubMed: 36451068
DOI: 10.1007/s11095-022-03441-5 -
Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics Sep 2022Despite the vaginal mucosa is able to respond to allergenic stimuli, vaginal allergic responses have been under investigated in clinical practice. Thus, we aimed to... (Review)
Review
PURPOSE
Despite the vaginal mucosa is able to respond to allergenic stimuli, vaginal allergic responses have been under investigated in clinical practice. Thus, we aimed to identify the most frequent etiological agents responsible for vulvovaginal allergies, the prevalent signs/symptoms, and the diagnostic tests applied in this clinical condition.
METHODS
Literature search was performed on PubMed, Scopus, Scielo, Web of Science, and EMBASE. The study protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020167238). Studies were divided in two groups depending on allergen exposure route. Due to a significant number of studies correlating allergy to Candida infection, subgroup analysis was included.
RESULTS
In direct exposure cases, Human Seminal Plasma was the most prevalent allergen, sensitizing 73% of affected women. These women presented localized swelling and burning as prevalent symptoms, affecting 42/68 and 36/68 women, respectively. Cutaneous Prick tests were applied in 58/68 women, either alone or combined with IgE measurements. Regarding cases of indirect/unidentified exposure, house dust mites was the most prevalent allergen (54%), followed by pollen (44%). Predominant symptoms were vulvar pruritus and burning, affecting 67/98 and 52/98 women. Skin prick test was the most prevalent diagnostic method used among different studies. Hypersensitivity toward Candida antigen was present in only half (163/323) of women presenting concomitant allergy and Candida infection.
CONCLUSION
From the two types of allergen exposure that can cause vulvovaginal allergic responses, direct contact of the antigen with the vulva and/or vagina was the most prevalent. Still, allergens can also sensitize the vaginal mucosa secondarily to other exposure route, specifically aeroallergens.
Topics: Allergens; Candidiasis; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Skin Tests; Vulvovaginitis
PubMed: 34825938
DOI: 10.1007/s00404-021-06332-z -
Indian Journal of Sexually Transmitted... 2021Vaginal candidiasis is one of the most common vaginal infections in women of reproductive age group caused by species of fungi, a normal inhabitant of vagina.
BACKGROUND
Vaginal candidiasis is one of the most common vaginal infections in women of reproductive age group caused by species of fungi, a normal inhabitant of vagina.
AIMS
The aim is to study the culture characteristics, species prevalence, and drug sensitivity of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) among females with genital pruritus and discharge per vaginum who are proved to have infection by a vaginal smear study.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A prospective study was done on female patients aged 18 years attending the Sexually Transmitted Diseases Clinic of the Department of Dermato-Venereo-Leprology (DVL), Tirunelveli Medical College, with complaints of genital pruritus and vaginal discharge over a period of 1½ years from 2013 to 2015. After clinical examination, vaginal discharge was smeared for wet mount, potassium hydroxide mount, and Gram stain. Those with pseudohyphae were chosen for culture, speciation, and drug sensitivity.
RESULTS
The most common age group affected was 18-35 years. The most common predisposing factor was HIV infection-induced immunosuppression (48.7%), followed by antibiotic usage and diabetes mellitus. Clinical presentation of VVC was similar in HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients. Recurrent VVC makes up 12% of total cases with most common species being whereas among the non-. Drug sensitivity pattern of showed the highest sensitivity to nystatin 85.7%, followed by triazoles (75%-85%) with ketoconazole being more resistant (40%-60%), and was similar in and non-.
LIMITATIONS
Exclusion of unmarried and pregnant women and lack of follow-up were limitations in our study.
CONCLUSIONS
According to our study, elimination of predisposing factors, speciation of fungus, and treatment based on drug sensitivity pattern will reduce the incidence of VVC.
PubMed: 34765939
DOI: 10.4103/ijstd.IJSTD_49_18 -
Journal of Geriatric Oncology Apr 2022Vulvar dermatoses are often debilitating chronic skin conditions associated with pain and pruritus. In oncologic patients, cancer treatments can precipitate and... (Review)
Review
Vulvar dermatoses are often debilitating chronic skin conditions associated with pain and pruritus. In oncologic patients, cancer treatments can precipitate and exacerbate vulvar dermatoses. Cytotoxic chemotherapy, hormonal therapies, and local pelvic radiation therapy can lead to vulvar symptoms, and cancer treatment-induced vulvar conditions include graft-versus-host-disease and radiation dermatitis. There have also been reports of lichen sclerosus development or exacerbation secondary to hormonal therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors, attributed to proposed hormonal and immunologic pathogenesis of lichen sclerosus. Early recognition and treatment of these conditions can significantly improve quality of life. In this review, we summarize the clinical features and management characteristics of six types of common vulvar dermatoses that may present in the oncologic patient.
Topics: Administration, Topical; Female; Humans; Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus; Quality of Life; Skin Diseases; Vulvar Diseases
PubMed: 34824022
DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2021.10.011