Inguinal Hyperhidrosis: Case Report of an Uncommon Cause of Vaginitis

J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol. 2018 Aug;31(4):420-421. doi: 10.1016/j.jpag.2018.01.008. Epub 2018 Feb 6.

Abstract

Background: Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) affects 1%-3% of the population. Primary focal hyperhidrosis most commonly affects the axilla, palms, and soles. There are few case reports of hyperhidrosis of the genital region, typically described as inguinal hyperhidrosis or Hexsel's hyperhidrosis.

Case: A 17-year-old girl presented with 3 years of copious, clear "vaginal" discharge causing significant emotional distress. After extensive gynecologic and urologic workup was negative, further review of her history was notable for excessive axillary sweating. Inguinal hyperhidrosis was suspected and she was treated with topical aluminum chloride hexahydrate with complete resolution of her symptoms.

Summary and conclusions: Inguinal hyperhidrosis, compared with other sites, is not widely described in the literature. Awareness of inguinal hyperhidrosis is important because it causes significant social embarrassment but is a treatable condition.

Keywords: Adolescent; Hyperhidrosis; Inguinal; Pediatric; Vaginitis; Vulva.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Aluminum Chloride
  • Aluminum Compounds / therapeutic use
  • Chlorides / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperhidrosis / complications*
  • Hyperhidrosis / drug therapy
  • Vagina / pathology
  • Vaginitis / drug therapy
  • Vaginitis / etiology*
  • Vulva / pathology

Substances

  • Aluminum Compounds
  • Chlorides
  • Aluminum Chloride