What is Lichen Sclerosus?

Lichen Sclerosus (LS) is a rare, chronic, inflammatory skin condition that affects the genital and anal areas. It can also appear on the upper body, breasts, and upper arms. LS causes itching, painful urination, and sexual dysfunction in both men and women. Anybody at any age can get LS but postmenopausal women are at a higher risk of getting the condition.

What are the symptoms of LS?

People who have the mild version of LS may not present with any signs or symptoms, but the more severe form includes:

●Redness

●Severe itching

●Pain or discomfort

●Smooth white patches on the skin

●Blotchy, wrinkled patches

●Painful intercourse

●Bleeding, blistering, or ulcerated sores

What are the causes of LS?

The cause of LS is unknown but there is evidence suggesting that an overactive immune system (autoimmune) may be primarily the issue. But other causes that can occur could be:

●Family history

●Trauma or scarring of skin

●Chronic irritation of skin

●Infections

●Hormonal imbalance

What is the treatment for LS?

LS may go away on its own after a while, but certain ointments and creams may be best to use when symptoms occur. Generally, to help lower risk of irritation, it is good to minimize irritating soaps, gels, and other topical formulations, avoid urinary contact, and moisturize the area with medicated creams and ointments that will soften the skin (emollients). It is also best to treat any underlying infections as this may be the cause for an LS flare-up. Ultrapotent topical steroids may be used for a few weeks at a time in order to help suppress the inflamed area. Sclero ® is a skin care line that can help regenerate and stabilize sensitive skin associated with LS. This can be used for all areas of the skin and has been clinically proven to improve dry, itchy skin caused by LS.

Long-term complications that can arise are painful sex, urinary retention, constipation, and the inability to retract the foreskin. People who have LS are also at increased risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma of the affected area of the skin. LS is a chronic, progressive lifelong condition that can have periods of remission and relapsing. If you believe you may have LS, talk with your doctor so they can assess the areas and treat this condition early. Treating LS early enough will allow a better prognosis and decrease your risk of getting serious complications later in life.