Vulvar disorders in adolescents.

Bacterial and fungal vulvitis, dermatitis, inflammatory dermatoses, secondary drug reactions, viral infections, and a variety of vulvar tumors can all present as primary vulvar problems in adolescents. In addition, systemic disease can present with vulvar involvement. These disorders can be extremely anxiety-provoking in adolescent females who are dealing with issues surrounding self-image, physical maturation, and sexuality. A detailed history and physical exam can provide many clues to the underlying problem, but sometimes a biopsy is necessary to establish a diagnosis. Consultations from other services, such as dermatology or infectious diseases, can be very helpful. The best approach involves a combination of empathetic reassurance, careful diagnosis, and successful treatment. In order to facilitate optimal care of adolescents with vulvar disorders, a comprehensive review of the literature is presented.