Factors influencing the clinical efficacy of high-intensity focused ultrasound in the treatment of non-neoplastic epithelial disorders of the vulva: a retrospective observational study

Abstract

Background: High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is an important method for treating non-neoplastic epithelial disorders of the vulva (NNEDV), but the factors affecting the efficacy of HIFU for NNEDV treatment remain unclear. Objective: To determine the factors influencing the clinical efficacy of HIFU in the treatment of NNEDV. Methods: A retrospective observational study of 186 NNEDV patients treated with HIFU was performed to evaluate the therapeutic effect, and the relationship between treatment efficacy and clinicopathological factors was analyzed. Results: NNEDV signs and symptoms were effectively improved and relieved after HIFU treatment. The total effective and recurrent rates were 95.16% and 4.52%, respectively. Younger patients with shorter disease courses, mild itching, or peri-vulvar lesions had better therapeutic effects, and patients with anxiety and/or depression had worse treatment outcomes. Conclusion: The therapeutic effect of HIFU on NNEDV is not only related to the itching degree, age, or disease course but is also closely related to lesion location as well as anxiety and depression in patients.