Vulvar sarcoidosis: case report and review of the literature

J Cutan Med Surg. 2013 Jul-Aug;17(4):287-90. doi: 10.2310/7750.2012.12083.

Abstract

Background: Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic disorder of unknown etiology that can affect multiple organs, including the lungs, skin, and eyes. Vulvar sarcoidosis has anecdotally been reported.

Objective: The aim of this article is to describe a case of vulvar sarcoidosis and review the few cases that have been reported.

Methods: We report the case of a 39-year-old woman who presented to the dermatologist with a 2-year history of vulvar pruritus.

Results: Examination revealed infiltrated plaques on the vulva and perianal region. The biopsy demonstrated well-defined, non-necrotizing granulomas in the dermis. Further investigation revealed hilar adenopathy consistent with sarcoidosis. The patient responded well to topical corticosteroids.

Conclusion: In the presence of granulomatous lesions of the genital region, infectious causes, foreign body reaction, Crohn disease, and sarcoidosis should be part of the differential diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Sarcoidosis / pathology*
  • Vulvar Diseases / pathology*