Vulvar Dysplasia

Vulvar dysplasia, also referred to as vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), describes abnormal cells found on the surface layer of the vulvar tissue. 

• VIN is not cancer, but is a precancerous change that can develop into cancer. Vulvar dysplasia
  ranges from mild to moderate to severe and is synonymous with VIN 1, VIN 2 and VIN 3 with the
  number 3 indicating the furthest progression towards cancer.

Vulvar dysplasia often does not cause early signs or symptoms and the most common complaints may also be caused by other conditions. 
Therefore, it is important to check with a doctor if you have any of the following:

• Vulvar tissue that is thickened, lighter or darker then surrounding tissue.
• Itching in the vulvar area that does not go away.
• A lump or growth on the vulva that looks like a wart or ulcer.
• Bleeding not related to menstruation (periods).
• Pain in the vulvar area.

Testing used to diagnose vulvar dysplasia include:

• Health history of any reported symptoms.
• Physical exam to examine the vulva for abnormalities.
• Biopsy of abnormal vulvar tissue, sent to pathology for diagnosis.

Treatment for vulvar dysplasia is aimed at preventing the development into vulvar cancer and will be individualized and determined by your physician.
Treatment options include:

• Topical therapy with Aldara (Imiquimod) works by boosting the body’s immune response to the
  area of abnormal tissue.
• Topical steroids may be used in lichen sclerosus to thin the tissue, prevent progression and relieve
  symptoms.
• CO2 laser uses high intensity energy from a light beam to destroy abnormal areas
• Surgical resection to remove the abnormal tissue without any loss of the woman’s sexual function,
  but is based on location. May require more than one surgery, depending on margin status and
  depth of invasion.