Vaginal itch,inflammation and swelling

Hello,

I’m looking for some help with a problem I have been dealing with for over 5 years now.  I have had numerous tests and they all come back negative with the exception of inflammation.  It is possible that my doctor maybe testing me for the wrong thing and I’m hoping you may suggest another test or tests that may be able to diagnose my problem.

In reviewing the forum, I have noticed that a lot of women have indicate they have vaginal itch and irritation during their period, which is what I have as well.  However, my symptoms are a bit different.

On the 1st day of my period, I begin to get a tingle of an itch in my opening (vagina) and then as the day progress my top lip begins to swell and itch (looks like I had a collagen injection).  I also have a brown spot between my two middle fingers and on my upper right arm that also begins to swell and itch and the itching in my vagina begins to get worse.

I have had a pap, swabs of my mouth and a biopsy of the spot on my arm over the years on the day 1 or the 2nd day of when my symptoms begin to occur and the results keep coming back negative.  I’ve also had a ton of blood work.

My doctor is a primary care physician and I love her but I’m hoping she maybe missing something and that you may be able to suggest different tests that could possible diagnose my problem.

My symptoms don’t occur during each menstrual cycle but on average occur 5-6 times per year and always begin on the 1st day of my period.

Also, the swelling does go down after a few days and the itching stops.  But then, the brown spots become dry, flake and my vagina remains raw for about a week.  I try very hard not to scratch it and I use a cortisone cream to alleviate the itch.

Almost forgot, I’m pretty healthy.  No major medical issues and no diseases.  I don’t do drug, drink socially and smoke a pack of cigarettes a day (yes I know, working on quitting).  

Anything you can suggest is much appreciated.

Cyndie

[Elaine Brown, MD]

HI!
Wow--I'm not sure I'll be much help here!

I presume the biopsy of your arm showed only inflammation?

A couple of thoughts I have, although I may be way off base.

Endometriosis can be found anywhere in the body, and tends to flare at the beginning of the cycle. However, usually the symptoms are pain rather than itching, they should be able to see it on a biopsy specimen, and I can't think of any good reason you would have it on your arm!

It IS possible for eczema to occur in the vaginal area, as well as other locations on the body.  I'm not sure why it would flare with your periods, but with hormones, anything can happen!  Sometimes if it is a longstanding problem, it takes a stronger steroid than cortisone to clear it up--something like clobetasole.

Finally, there is a condition called Bechet's which can cause oral ulcers as well as vaginal lesions. It is pretty uncommon, and the diagnosis  is made by biopsy.

I'd probably want more biosies and a dermatology opinion too!

Hope this is somewhat helpful!

Dr B