Nonsexually Transmitted Genital Ulcer Secondary to Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Genital ulcers that are not the result of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are uncommon, and case reports predominantly feature pubertal girls. CASE:A 38-year-old monogamous, nulliparous woman acutely developed painful vaginal ulcers 7 days after babysitting a child who was subsequently diagnosed with hand, foot, and mouth disease. The patient developed nonspecific systemic symptoms followed by painful and rapidly expanding genital ulcers. Laboratory test results for herpes, syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and Epstein-Barr virus were all negative. The patient was treated with brief inpatient observation, oral prednisone, meticulous wound care, and debridement. The ulcers resolved over a 3-week period.CONCLUSION: Although typically associated with pubertal girls, genital ulcers that are not the result of STIs can affect adults as well. The cornerstone of management regardless of age is supportive care, debridement and wound care, and treatment with steroids.