A Standardized Evaluation Method for Assessing Patients With Genital Dyschromia

Objective The population's ever-growing concern with genital aesthetic dysfunctions reflects an increasing demand in the field of intimate aesthetics. For this reason, as well as the lack of a standardized evaluation, this paper aims to develop a form that facilitates the initial investigation of aesthetic genital dysfunctions. Methods An evaluation form for female and male genital dyschromia was developed between July and November 2018. Following initial development, the form was evaluated for quality and was updated by a panel of specialists (a psychologist, two pelvic dysfunction physiotherapists, and two dermato-functional physiotherapists) via email and through a content validity questionnaire. The face validity of the form was assessed by five physiotherapy and medical students who were randomly selected. The students answered a questionnaire evaluating the proposed form. The reliability of the form was established through the test-retest procedure by evaluating its reproducibility over time. Results The “Genital Dyschromia Evaluation Form'' (composed of identification, anamnesis, and physical examination sections) was approved by the specialist panel. They suggested questions to be added in the anamnesis (dermatological lesions or fungal and bacterial infections) and physical examination (hyperemia, edema in the perianal and internal thigh region) sections. As for the image analysis, an increase in quality, resolution, and sharpness was suggested. Lastly, for the cutaneous phototype evaluation, the DoctorSkinFototipo® digital analyzer device was chosen since it is small, portable, easily positioned on the genital area, and can be readily cleaned between patients. Conclusion The “Genital Dyschromia Evaluation Form” is a questionnaire approved by specialists and could represent a suitable option for health professionals.