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Pruritus vulvae - Management
What investigations should I consider?
- Investigations that might be helpful
- Fasting blood glucose level, if diabetes mellitus is suspected — diabetes may cause general pruritus.
- Routine screen, including full blood count, serum ferritin, and thyroid function tests.
- Iron deficiency anaemia, lymphoma, other haematological abnormalities, and thyroid dysfunction may cause general pruritus. For more information on the investigation of general pruritus, see the CKS topic on Itch - widespread.
- Vaginal swabs for Candida sp. — swabs can be considered in all women, as there may be little or no discharge with chronic vulvovaginal candidiasis.
- Vaginal swabs for other infections, if suspected, such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis.
- If a sexually transmitted infection is suspected, ideally, refer the woman to a service specializing in sexual health or a general practice providing an enhanced sexual health service to confirm the diagnosis.
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