Lichen Sclerosus

Understanding Lichen Sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus is a relatively rare condition, most commonly affecting postmenopausal women, but it can also occur in younger women, girls, and men. The exact cause is not fully understood, though it is thought to be an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue.

Symptoms of Lichen Sclerosus

Persistent Itching

Skin Thinning

Skin Whitening

Painful Intercourse

Vulvar Bleeding

Tissue Hardening

Vulvar Stenosis

Painful urination

Scarring

Diagnosis of Lichen Sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus is typically diagnosed through a physical exam and a skin biopsy. The biopsy involves taking a small skin sample for microscopic analysis to confirm the diagnosis and exclude other conditions.

Treatment of Lichen Sclerosus

While there is no cure, lichen sclerosus can be managed with various treatments aimed at alleviating symptoms and preventing complications:

Topical Corticosteroids: Steroid creams help reduce inflammation and itching.
Estrogen Creams: Especially useful for postmenopausal women to restore skin elasticity.

Platelet Rich Plasma Injections: These have been shown to aid in symptom relief.
Surgery: In extreme cases, surgery may be required to address issues like vulvar stenosis or the risk of skin cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Is lichen sclerosus contagious?

No, it is not contagious. It affects only the individual and cannot be spread to others.

Can lichen sclerosus affect my sex life?

Yes, the pain and discomfort associated with lichen sclerosus can make sexual activity difficult or painful.

Can lichen sclerosus cause infertility?

In severe cases, lichen sclerosus may cause vulvar stenosis, which can interfere with sexual activity and potentially affect fertility.

Can lichen sclerosus be prevented?

There is no known way to prevent the condition, but early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

Are there any natural remedies for lichen sclerosus?

Some natural remedies may offer temporary relief, but it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before trying new treatments.

Treatment Cost

Dr Harini charges £180 for consultations.

We charge a £50 deposit to secure your consultation with Dr Harini, this amount will be deducted from the consultation fees or costs of the treatment you go on to have at our clinic.