Psoriasis of the vulva

Psoriasis is a common skin condition affecting 2% of the population. It tends to occur in families and can develop at any age but most commonly in the second and third decades. Most affected areas of the skin are red scaly patches. The scalp can become scaly and nails rough surfaced and pitted.

In the vulva it is usually the hairy skin which is affected, and the change commonly extends to the skin around the anus and into the natal cleft (fold between the buttocks). The scaling in the creases and folds may not be as prominent as in other areas but itching is often a problem (but not always). Other skin creases such as under the breasts and the navel can also be affected, often on both sides.

Psoriasis is not an infectious disorder. There is no single cure, however, it can respond well to treatment. Diet has no role in the management of psoriasis although natural therapists might disagree with this viewpoint which is a medical one. In some patients - stress, illness and injury can make psoriasis worse. Some tablets used to treat high blood pressure, arthritis or some mental illnesses can aggravate psoriasis.

For psoriasis of the vulva, a topical steroid cream or ointment is often beneficial but there is a tendency for relapse and it may have to be used intermittently. Other treatments which are used for psoriasis on other parts of the skin such as tar creams and calcipotriol (Vitamin D) can be very helpful but are not always tolerated on the vulva.

If you have a persistent vulval rash and a personal or family history of psoriasis you might have psoriasis of the vulva. Your doctor or dermatologist will be able to tell you whether this is the case.

For more information about psoriasis go to DermNet NZ.