O04 Vulval Psoriasis in Children: A Clinical Audit and Review of Literature

Abstract

Abstract Objective Vulval psoriasis is frequently under-recognised, under-­diagnosed and under-treated in children due to its nonspecific presentation. This retrospective chart review is aimed to describe the symptoms, signs, and management of vulval psoriasis in children in a private vulval disease referral practice. Materials and methods A retrospective, single-centre cohort study of children was undertaken at a large, combined dermatology and gynaecology practice from January 2016 to January 2023. Clinical photographs and treatment data were systematically collected and recorded in an online patient database. Treatment regimens were individualised and titrated to clinical response. Results This seven-year retrospective cohort study included a total of 100 children with vulval psoriasis. The most common presentation was nonspecific erythema (85%) that is well-demarcated in one-third of children and appears as a raised plaque in one-fifth of children. In 78% of the patients, evidence of psoriasis was found on other parts of the skin. Initial induction treatment with potent topical corticosteroid followed by maintenance treatment with less potent topical steroids and topical tar creams. 5% of children required systemic treatment. Conclusions and Relevance Vulval psoriasis often presents as a nonspecific chronic erythematous vulvitis without vaginitis. It is a chronic relapsing skin condition that requires long-term management. Systematic treatment is required in a small proportion of children.