Genital Dermatoses - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Introduction

Skin diseases that affect the skin of reproductive organs are known as genital dermatoses. Unfortunately, because of the stigma attached to STIs, genital dermatoses are very common. Additionally, because many people mistakenly confuse the symptoms of non-venereal conditions with venereal conditions, genital dermatoses sometimes go untreated, or patients may try to treat them on their own, leading to further complications or worsening the situation. According to whether they are venereal, which means they are sexually transmitted, or non-venereal, these disorders can be categorized. Some vaginal dermatoses, like scabies or folliculitis, might be infectious, while others can be inflammatory, like psoriasis or lichen planus, or malignant, like skin malignancies. Neurological disorders or pain syndromes may cause some genital dermatoses.

What Are the Various Forms of Genital Dermatoses?

Genital region dermatoses are not always sexually transmitted. Venereal and nonvenereal dermatoses are the two classes into which they can be divided. Nonvenereal dermatoses are illnesses that are not sexually transmitted. Nonvenereal genital dermatoses are a broad category of diseases with various etiologies. They may only affect the genitalia, or they may also affect other bodily parts. Genital dermatoses come in multiple forms, each with its unique set of symptoms. However, some disorders can present similarly to others and may need further testing, such as blood work or a biopsy, to confirm a diagnosis. Even if a patient already uses protection like latex condoms, they must undergo routine tests by their general practitioner or a sexual health clinic (the majority of which are accessible and highly inconspicuous) to ensure they are getting frequently screened. The following categories can be used to classify genital dermatoses:

1. Inflammatory non-sexually transmitted diseases. Examples of non-sexually transmitted genital dermatoses are:

• Balanitis (inflammation of the foreskin and head of the penis).

• Genital psoriasis.

• Vaginal cysts.

2. Infectious, not sexually transmitted.

3. Infectious sexually transmitted. Examples of sexually transmitted genital dermatoses are:

• Syphilis (bacterial infection)

• Chlamydia (sexually transmitted fungal infection)

• Gonorrhea (sexually transmitted bacterial infection)

• Pubic lice (genital crabs).

4. Neurological or connected to a pain syndrome.

What Are the Symptoms of Genital Dermatoses?

It is significant to remember that some genital dermatoses may be largely asymptomatic, meaning the absence of any or few alarming signs until the problem has advanced. Because of this, patients must receive regular genital examinations as part of their general medical care; often, this is done by a GP. One or more of the following symptoms are some of the more typical vaginal dermatoses symptoms.

1. Itching, discomfort in the vaginal area or the vicinity, and pruritus.

2. A challenge in urinating, or discomfort or burning during urinating.

3. Lumps, patches, or lesions.

4. Blisters, sores, or ulcers.

5. Skin discoloration, particularly if it has just started to emerge.

6. Scaly, flaky, or dry skin.

7. Pain during sexual activity.

8. Aberrant discharge in terms of quantity, color, odor, or texture.

What Are the Causes of Genital Dermatoses?

• The disease will determine the cause of the genital dermatoses; for instance, a sexually transmitted illness would probably be brought on by sexual activity or another close skin-to-skin contact of the genitalia.

• Some vaginal dermatoses, such as psoriasis and lichen planus, are thought to be the outcome of autoimmune diseases or inflammatory problems that may or may not also affect the skin on other body regions.

• Cancerous growths are typically brought on by the aberrant growth of a specific type of cell, which is the usual cause of malignant disorders.

• Some vaginal dermatoses may be brought on by a parasitic skin condition like scabies or head lice, or a fungal skin infection like jock itch or thrush may bring them on.

• It is advised to avoid sexual contact with others if one has genital dermatoses symptoms and to have routine sexual health testing regularly, even if one is symptom-free (asymptomatic), to limit the spread of sexually transmitted infections.

• Inevitably engaging in sexual activity with more than one partner, it is essential to have more frequent testing for sexually transmitted diseases.

• Depending on how long a condition may go undetected or if tests are unreliable, it may need to return for additional testing; the person performing the tests will advise when and how often to do so.

• Before engaging in sexual activity again, if one has been prescribed treatment for a sexually transmitted disease, it is essential to strictly adhere to all given guidelines and follow the recommended course of treatment.

What Are the Treatment Options Available for Genital Dermatoses?

Before a condition may be treated, investigations may be required to diagnose it. For treatment of a problem or to confirm a diagnosis, patients could occasionally need blood tests, a biopsy, and more than one session. One will be able to choose the best course of action after discussing the newest and most efficient therapies with the dermatologist, who will also be able to clarify any potential adverse effects.

1. Some vaginal dermatoses can be treated with over-the-counter topical medications. However, prescription creams or tablets may be essential to treat some disorders or if the skin has become infected.

2. It is crucial to distinguish between venereal and nonvenereal dermatoses because venereal dermatoses are of the utmost concern to the patient and lead to mental tension and guilt feelings in patients.

3. Genital dermatosis is often treated by addressing the infection's underlying cause.

4. Itching from genital dermatosis may be relieved with over-the-counter treatments like hydrocortisone. Sometimes, a doctor may suggest a cream that reduces itching while treating the underlying problem.

5. Antibiotics are used to treat syphilis because it is a bacterial infection. Topical medications, such as the immunomodulator imiquimod, treat genital warts.

6. Scabies are treated with lotions, while lice can be eradicated with shampoos or body washes. Although genital herpes cannot be cured, medicines can effectively control it.

7. Hydrating creams and moisturizers that support the skin's barrier repair.

8. Avoid anything that can aggravate it. This covers coarse garments, such as wool.

9. Other forms of treatment can be appropriate depending on the disease and the general health.

Conclusion

Not all genital lesions are sexually transmitted. It is crucial to distinguish between venereal and nonvenereal genital dermatoses since the nonvenereal conditions cause patients a great deal of mental suffering and guilt. The treating physicians find it challenging to diagnose these nonvenereal illnesses. Therefore, it is crucial to have a thorough awareness of the varied presentations and their etiologies. To confirm a diagnosis and receive the proper medical care, patients should always present to a general practitioner (GP) or another certified medical expert (such as a medically trained sexual health specialist). One should consult a doctor if they have any symptoms of genital dermatoses, regardless of age or whether they are sexually active.