Other STIs and Genital Conditions

Lichen simplex of the vulva

This patient presented with vulvar lesions and a 3-4 month history of waking at night because of itching. Although these lesions may look like genital herpes, the history suggests otherwise.

The correct diagnosis is lichen simplex of the vulva. Lichen simplex is a skin condition resulting from skin irritation of the vulva and is not sexually transmitted or due to an infection. Symptoms may include itching, burning and thickened skin.

The lesions that are seen in this patient are due to scratching and are not sexually transmissible.

photo reproduced with the permission of Dr. Marc Steben