Lichen Sclerosus in Perspective

Abstract

Lichen sclerosus (LS) was first described in women by a researcher in 1887.¹ It was recognized in men by another investigator in 1928.² Lichen sclerosus is a chronic, inflammatory lymphocytic dermatosis that occurs in anywhere from 1:30 to 1:1,000 adults.^3,4 There is a slight predominance of women, with a bimodal age distribution in pre-pubertal individuals and again in life's sixth-seventh decades. Studies have established that the majority with pre-pubertal onset continue to have adulthood disease.⁵ Psychosocial implications of this disease, specifically self-image, anxiety, and sexual function, can be debilitating for patients.^6-9 As no cure has been described for lichen sclerosus. Treatment is aimed at symptomatic relief and preventing additional effacement. Unfortunately, the scarring that occurs is usually permanent.^10,11 As it is unclear whether treatment alters the theoretic risk of malignant degeneration, estimated at 4%-5%,^12,13 frequent clinical examinations are indicated.^14-17.