Lichen Sclerosus: Causes, Symptoms, Risk Factors, Diagnosis

Lichen sclerosus is characterized by uneven, thin, and discolored skin. Typically, the vaginal and anal areas are impacted.

Although everyone can have lichen sclerosus, postmenopausal women are especially vulnerable. It is not contagious and cannot be spread through sexual contact.

Typically, the treatment consists of a medicated ointment. This process helps the skin restore to its normal hue and reduces the likelihood of scarring. Even after your symptoms disappear, they generally come back. You will therefore most likely need continuing follow-up care.

Causes Of Lichen sclerosus

The precise cause of lichen sclerosus is uncertain. An hyperactive immune system, your genetic composition, and a history of skin irritation or damage are likely contributing factors. Since lichen sclerosus is not communicable, sexual contact cannot spread the disease.

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Symptoms Of Lichen sclerosus

It is possible for mild lichen sclerosus to exist symptomlessly. When they do appear, they usually affect the skin around the anal and vaginal areas. Additionally, the back, shoulders, upper arms, and breasts may be affected. Some possible symptoms include:

• Sections of blotchy, wrinkled skin 
• Smooth, discolored patches of skin
• Itchiness
• A scorching or painful feeling
• Easy bruises
• Gentle skin
• Urethral (urinary tube) modifications
• Blisters, open sores, or bleeding from painful sex experiences

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Risk Factors Of Lichen sclerosus

Anyone can get lichen sclerosus, but the following things make it more likely:

• Following menopause, women
• Youngsters under ten
• Women suffering from other autoimmune disorders, such as hypothyroidism, an example of decreased thyroid function
• Men with uncircumcised penises or bladder incontinence
• People with a family medical history of the condition

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Diagnosis Of Lichen sclerosus

Your physician may diagnose lichen sclerosus based on the skin that is afflicted. Sometimes a biopsy is required to rule out cancer. You may require a biopsy if applying steroid creams doesn't improve the response of your skin. Taking a small sample of the affected tissue to look at under a microscope is called a biopsy.

Skin diseases may require referrals to urologists, dermatologists, gynecologists, and pain management specialists.

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Treatment Of Lichen sclerosus

With treatment, symptoms often improve or go away. How you are treated for lichen sclerosus will depend on the location and severity of your symptoms. Treatment can improve your skin's look, reduce itching, and limit the likelihood of scarring. Sometimes, even after a successful course of therapy, the symptoms recur.

Treatments for lichen sclerosus that your doctor might suggest include:

• Ophthalmic corticosteroids: You apply topical steroid creams directly to the affected areas to treat them. Clobetasol is frequently prescribed by providers.
• Light therapy, or phototherapy: UVB (ultraviolet B) radiation from specific lamps is used in phototherapy to reduce inflammation and minimize itching.
• Immunosuppressive medicines: Immunosuppressants assist in preventing the immune system from targeting healthy cells. Tacrolimus ointment is frequently prescribed by providers.
• Surgery: Your doctor may advise surgery based on the area of your body that lichen sclerosus affects. If your foreskin is affected by lichen sclerosus, surgery may be necessary. If lichen sclerosus results in urethral strictures, surgery may be necessary.
• A vital component of treating lichen sclerosus is visiting a doctor regularly. Watching for indications of skin cancer helps prevent scarring around your genitals.

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Complications Of Lichen sclerosus

Complications of lichen sclerosus include painful clitoris-covering sexual experiences and scarring. Penis scarring can cause painful erections, an inability to retract the foreskin, and reduced urine flow.

People with vulvar lichen sclerosus are at an increased risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma. For children, constipation is a common adverse effect.

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