A vulvar biopsy is a test to check for vulvar cancer or another skin disease. The vulva is the outer part of a woman's genitals. During a biopsy, small pieces of tissue are taken from areas of skin that look abnormal. The tissue is then checked in a lab for cancer cells and other types of skin disease.

What can a vulvar biopsy detect?

Vulvar lesions (see the image below) that can be diagnosed by vulvar biopsy include molluscum contagiosum, lichen sclerosus, vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia, condyloma, and vulvar carcinoma. Vulvar lesion to biopsy. Vulvar biopsy is one of the more common gynecological office procedures.

Is vulvar biopsy necessary?

Why is a vulvar/vaginal biopsy needed? A biopsy is done to determine why you may have noticed itching, redness, swelling or changes in color to your vulva or vagina. It may also be done if you have a lump or sore that has recently appeared.