Pigmented Lesions of the Vulva

Vulvar nevi, melanosis, and melanoma: An epidemiologic, clinical, and histopathologic review

“…1,2 In addition, there exists a small subset of nevi termed ''atypical melanocytic nevi of the genital type'' (AMNGT), which represent approximately 5% of vulvar nevi. 6,7 Vulvar nevi may present during childhood.…”

“…Common vulvar nevi are associated with a median age of 28 to 33 years, whereas AMNGT are associated with a younger age of 17 to 26 years. 2,6,9,10 Clinical presentation Common vulvar nevi (Fig 1) present as symmetric macules and flat-topped or dome-shaped papules, ranging in color from pink to dark brown-black, or rarely, blue. 2,3,7 Common nevi are well-demarcated with regular borders, uniform pigmentation, and diameter typically less than 1 cm.…”

“…2,6,9,10 Clinical presentation Common vulvar nevi (Fig 1) present as symmetric macules and flat-topped or dome-shaped papules, ranging in color from pink to dark brown-black, or rarely, blue. 2,3,7 Common nevi are well-demarcated with regular borders, uniform pigmentation, and diameter typically less than 1 cm. 3,4,8,9,11 They are most often located on the labia majora, labia minora, and clitoral hood.…”

“…1,2 The differential diagnosis includes benign and malignant melanocytic proliferations, such as nevi and melanoma. Nonmelanocytic proliferations such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, vascular tumors, seborrheic keratosis, and condylomata acuminata can also present as pigmented vulvar lesions.…”

The Ringlike Pattern in Vulvar Melanosis

“…In most cases, it develops on the labia minora, but it can also occur on the labia majora, perineum, introitus, vagina, and cervix. [1][2][3] Although VM is a benign lesion, its correlation with mucosal melanoma is still under debate. It often poses a diagnostic challenge because it shows many clinical features consistent with those of melanoma.…”