Does a large, white patch on the cervix indicate cancer?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I have a large visible white patch on my cervix. Unfortunately, I did not do a pap smear for nearly eight years. But, when I did a few months ago, the results showed HPV. My doctor asked me to wait for a year and check. Tissue around the vulva is drier and more painful (2 to 3 years post-menopause). Anal itching has persisted for weeks, and I was shocked to see this white spot on my cervix. I have never seen that previously nor have I noticed hyperpigmentation in the zone before. I have been sexually active with a monogamous partner. Is this cancer or candida? I have had recurrent (1x every 2 -3 years or so) vaginal yeast infections over the years which always clear up with over-the-counter creams. I am plump (not morbidly obese, but my BMI shows obese), consume excess sugar, and do not exercise, which is overall an unhealthy lifestyle. Could this be the reason? Kindly help.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I can understand your concern.
Based on the description provided by you, the whitish patch could be caused by candidiasis. But for your age, it is most likely lichen sclerosis.
Lichen sclerosis skin is shiny and may cause some itching and discomfort. For this, a topical steroid should help (other agents can be used if that fails). Candidiasis is associated with whitish and sometimes cheesy vaginal discharge with itching. Anti-fungal vaginal pessaries would help.
HPV (human papillomavirus) infection, the strain that is detected in you is what usually guides the next appointment with your gynecologist. I believe it was a less virulent type of HPV that was discovered in you, which is why a year appointment was given to you. However, note that either lichen sclerosis or candida does not increase the risk of cervical cancer.
I suggest you follow the below mentioned instructions.
- Apply Clobetasol propionate (0.05 %) topically once daily for 3 months.
- Kindly consult a specialist, talk to them, and take the medications with their consent.
I hope this information will help you.
Thank you.
The Probable causes
Probable diagnosis
Treatment plan
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for the reply.
May I know the reason behind ruling out leukoplakia or hyperkeratosis? From what I have read, it is often visible to the naked eye and has the same characteristics as the pictures. I would warrant a biopsy in that case to rule out malignancy. This seems especially relevant, given that I have HPV. Kindly suggest.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I can understand your concern.
The two common non-cancerous causes of vulvar leukoplakia are vulvar lichen sclerosis and squamous cell hyperplasia of the vulva. The initial management is the same, and when symptoms do not subside, then a biopsy and further investigation are needed. Leukoplakia is just a term that encapsulates both conditions.
I hope this information will help you.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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