title: Is patch testing necessary in vulval vestibulitis?
abstract: Allergic contact dermatitis has been suggested as a possible cause of vulval vestibulitis, a condition of unknown aetiology characterized by burning, stinging and dyspareunia, with symptoms localised to the vestibule. To examine this relationship, 30 women with vulval vestibulitis were patch tested using a standard series of contact allergens and a special series relevant to perianal and vulval disorders. Other potential allergens identified by the patients as causing aggravation were also included. There were 5 positive reactions, 4 to nickel and 1 to fragrance mix, though none of these reactions were considered relevant. Our results suggest that allergic contact dermatitis is unlikely to be a primary factor in the development or persistence of vulval vestibulitis. Patch testing patients with vulval vestibulitis cannot routinely be recommended.
authors.affiliation: Bolton Centre for Sexual Health, Bolton General Hospital, UK.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Nunns
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Ferguson
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Beck
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Mandal
mesh_terms: D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010328:Patch Tests; D014847:Vulvitis / Q000209:etiology*
chemical_list: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones