Vulvar problems in elderly women: Don't assume that menopause is the culprit

Like many other parts of the body, the vulva is affected by cessation of estrogen after menopause. Vulvar pruritus and irritation are common findings with normal aging, but they may also be signs of infection, inflammation, or other skin conditions. Misdiagnosis results in incorrect treatment, a dissatisfied patient and, often, referral to a gynecology clinic. In this article, two instructors in the field describe acute and chronic vulvar disorders and summarize how to identify and treat them.