SMSNA – What Is Lichen Sclerosus?

Lichen sclerosus is a uncommon pores and skin situation that normally happens within the genital or anal space. It creates white, patchy areas of pores and skin which may be thinner and tighter than different areas of pores and skin. Pores and skin affected by lichen sclerosus is commonly extra inclined to bruising and tearing, which may result in painful intercourse when it’s situated on the genitals.

Who can get lichen sclerosus?

Whereas males, ladies, and youngsters of all ages can get lichen sclerosus, it’s commonest in postmenopausal ladies. Overweight males or these with uncircumcised penises could also be extra more likely to expertise this situation as a result of lichen sclerosus can develop on the foreskin or shaft pores and skin with penile retraction. Lastly, people could also be at larger threat of getting lichen sclerosus if they’ve an autoimmune illness or a historical past of lichen sclerosus of their household.

What causes lichen sclerosus?

The reason for lichen sclerosus is unknown, however an overactive immune system, hormonal imbalance, chemical irritation from urine, recurrent fungal infections, and former harm to the pores and skin are thought to contribute to its growth. Lichen sclerosus will not be contagious and can’t be handed from one individual to a different throughout sexual activity.

What are the signs?

Though lichen sclerosus normally impacts the genital or anal space, it could actually additionally have an effect on the breasts, torso, and higher arms. Some individuals with delicate lichen sclerosus could by no means discover signs, however for average to extreme circumstances, the most typical signs embrace:

• Clean white patches of tight pores and skin which will develop in dimension over time
• Itchiness
• Pores and skin that tears and/or bruises simply
• Redness
• Discomfort or ache
• Blisters
• Painful intercourse

How is lichen sclerosus recognized?

A well being care supplier can normally diagnose lichen sclerosus by way of acquiring a affected person well being historical past and conducting a bodily examination of the realm of pores and skin that’s impacted. Generally, a biopsy of the affected space could also be required. Which means that they may take a small pattern of the pores and skin and ship it to a lab to be examined extra intently below a microscope.

How is it handled?

Although it’s unusual, lichen sclerosus can often enhance by itself. More often than not, a well being care skilled will suggest lotions or ointments to cut back itchiness and scarring and enhance the look of the pores and skin. The commonest first-line remedy for lichen sclerosus is a steroid ointment or cream that a person can apply to the affected space. Eradicating the foreskin could also be an possibility for individuals with uncircumcised penises if that’s the place they’re experiencing lichen sclerosus. Nevertheless, surgical procedure within the genital or anal space is normally not advisable as a remedy as a result of lichen sclerosus can reoccur. It’s a good suggestion to schedule common follow-up visits with a well being care supplier in order that they’ll monitor any adjustments within the space.

Sources:

Cedars-Sinai. Medically reviewed by Michael Lehrer, MD; Rita Sather, RN; Raymond Kent Turley BSN, MSN, RN. (2021). Lichen Sclerosus. https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/l/lichen-sclerosus.html.

Mayo Clinic. (2020, October 10). Lichen Sclerosus. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lichen-sclerosus/symptoms-causes/syc-20374448.

WebMD. Medically reviewed by Debra Jaliman, MD. (2020, September 10). What’s Lichen Sclerosus? https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/lichen-sclerosis.