Vulvar Crohn's Disease: Clinical Features and Outcomes

Am J Gastroenterol. 2021 Nov 1;116(11):2296-2299. doi: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001502.

Abstract

Introduction: Vulvar involvement is a rare complication of Crohn's disease (CD). The optimal treatment of vulvar CD is unknown.

Methods: We conducted a 25-year retrospective cohort study of vulvar CD from 3 referral centers. Clinical features and outcomes were studied.

Results: Fifty patients were identified. The most common vulvar symptoms were pain (74%), edema (60%), ulcerations (46%), nodules (36%), and abscess (34%). Medical management leading to symptomatic improvement varied, and 5 patients ultimately required surgery.

Discussion: Vulvar CD manifests with a broad spectrum of symptoms. Aggressive medical management was frequently effective, although surgery was required in 10% of cases.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cohort Studies
  • Crohn Disease / complications*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Vulvar Diseases / diagnosis
  • Vulvar Diseases / etiology*
  • Vulvar Diseases / therapy
  • Young Adult