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Lichen sclerosus is a rare disorder that causes patchy, white skin that is thinner than usual. It commonly affects the vaginal and anal regions.
Lichen sclerosus can affect anyone, however postmenopausal women are at a higher risk.
Your doctor may recommend creams or ointments to help restore your skin's normal appearance and reduce the likelihood of scarring. Because the disorder is prone to recurrence, long-term follow-up care may be required. Lichen sclerosus rarely improves without therapy.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF LICHEN SCLEROSUS?
Mild lichen sclerosus may show no signs or symptoms.
The skin of the vaginal and anal areas is frequently affected, but it can also affect the skin of the upper body, upper arms, and breasts. They could include:
- Redness
- Your skin has smooth white patches.
- Patches of blotchy, wrinkled skin
- Bleeding or tearing
- Itching (pruritus), which can be excruciating
- Pain or discomfort
- In severe situations, there may be bleeding, blistering, or ulcerated sores.
- Painful sex
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF LICHEN SCLEROSUS?
Lichen sclerosus has no recognized etiology. An hyperactive immune system or a hormonal imbalance could be to blame. Previous skin damage at a specific region on your skin may enhance your chances of developing lichen sclerosus there.
Lichen sclerosus is not contagious and cannot be transmitted through sexual contact.
Lichen sclerosus is most common in postmenopausal women, but it can also affect males and children. Lichen sclerosus frequently affects the vulva in women. Uncircumcised males are particularly vulnerable, as the disorder mainly affects the foreskin.
Children's signs and symptoms may improve with puberty, but disease activity must still be monitored.
WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR LICHEN SCLEROSUS?
Lichen sclerosus is more common in postmenopausal women, but it can also occur in men and children. Uncircumcised men are at a higher risk because the condition frequently affects the foreskin.
WHAT ARE THE COMPLICATIONS OF LICHEN SCLEROSIS?
Lichen sclerosus complications include painful sex, urine retention, constipation, and an inability to retract the foreskin. People who have lichen sclerosus are also more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma in the afflicted area.
HOW IS LICHEN SCLEROSUS DIAGNOSED?
Lichen sclerosus may be diagnosed by your doctor based on:
- A physical examination.
- Removal of a small piece of afflicted tissue (biopsy) for inspection under a microscope
Your doctor may recommend you to a dermatologist or a specialist in the female reproductive system.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR LICHEN SCLEROSUS?
Your doctor will recommend therapy if you have lichen sclerosus on or near your genitals or anus, or if you have a more severe disease on other parts of your body. Treatment helps to alleviate irritation, enhance the appearance of your skin, and prevent additional scarring. Recurrence is rather usual. Lichen sclerosus rarely improves on its own.
Corticosteroids
Lichen sclerosus is usually treated with corticosteroid ointments or creams. Initially, you should apply cortisone creams or ointments to the afflicted skin twice a day. After a few weeks, your doctor will probably advise you to just take these pills twice a week to avoid a recurrence.
Your doctor will keep an eye on you for any negative effects of long-term topical corticosteroid therapy, such as skin thinning.
Alternative treatment options
If corticosteroid treatment fails or if months of corticosteroid medication are required, your doctor may prescribe a tacrolimus ointment (Protopic).
Circumcision (removal of the foreskin) in men is a typical treatment in situations that are resistant to other therapies or in more advanced cases. Surgery in the vaginal or anal area is generally not advised for women with lichen sclerosus because the condition may reoccur.
Inquire with your doctor about how frequently you should return for follow-up exams. They are normally advised every six to twelve months.
HOME REMEDIES FOR LICHEN SCLEROSUS
Whether you are undergoing treatment or not, the following self-care tips may be beneficial:
- Lubricant (petroleum jelly, A and D ointment, Aquaphor) should be applied to the affected area.
- Every day, gently wash and pat dry the afflicted region. Avoid using strong soaps and taking too many baths.
- Oatmeal solutions, sitz baths, ice packs, or cool compresses can help relieve burning and pain.
- Take an antihistamine before night to help decrease itching while you sleep.