Benign Lesions in the Groin and Vulva

This chapter provides information on benign lesions in the groin and vulva, citing the case of 56-year-old woman who had an itchy lump which became painful after six months. Benign conditions affecting the vulva and groin include dermatoses, infections, neoplasms, and non-neoplastic cysts or lesions. For examining the vulva, taking biopsies and performing minor operations, a colposcopy couch has advantages; however, this is not always necessary or possible. Vulval and groin cysts are generally asymptomatic but can cause extreme acute pain due to enlargement or infection. After incising the cyst or abscess there are several techniques for destroying the cyst base. Reported techniques include the application of silver nitrate, alcohol instillation, and use of the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser. The aim of treatment is to preserve the gland and its function, and can usually be performed under local anesthesia, reserving general anesthesia for larger cysts and abscesses.