Angiokeratoma of the vulva: diagnosis and review of the literature

Abstract

Angiokeratomas of the vulva are uncommon benign lesions. They are usually unilateral, multiple in number, and occur before the age of 50 years. Angiokeratomas are papular lesions measuring less than 1 cm in diameter and are purple in color. In most patients the lesions are asymptomatic; however, intermittent bleeding, pruritus, and pain have been reported. Histologically, hyperkeratosis, papillomatosis, acanthosis, and dilated vasculature in the papillary dermis are characteristic features. Degenerative changes in the perivascular elastic tissue is observed and may contribute to the pathogenesis of vulvar angiokeratomas. In asymptomatic patients, management need only include reassurance and follow-up observation; surgical excision, electrodesiccation, or argon laser for local removal of the lesions may be useful in symptomatic women. Clinically, infections, inflammatory lesions, vascular conditions, and epithelial tumors must be differentiated.