Lichen Sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus is a skin condition that creates patchy, discolored, and thin areas of skin. It most often appears on the genitals and around the anus.

This condition can affect anyone, but women who have gone through menopause are more prone to developing it. Crucially, lichen sclerosus is not contagious and cannot be passed on through sexual contact.

Doctors typically treat lichen sclerosus with a medicated cream or ointment. This helps to restore the skin's normal color and reduces the chance of permanent scarring. Even if the symptoms disappear with treatment, they often return. Therefore, ongoing medical care and follow-up appointments are typically necessary.

Lichen sclerosus can sometimes cause no noticeable problems. However, when it does, it typically affects the skin around the genitals and anus. It can also sometimes affect the skin on the back, shoulders, upper arms, and breasts.

Possible signs of lichen sclerosus include:

• Changes in skin color and texture: You might notice smooth patches of skin that look different from the surrounding skin, or patches that look blotchy and wrinkled.

• Itching and discomfort: The affected skin may feel itchy or sore, or you might experience a burning sensation.

• Easy bruising and fragile skin: The skin in the affected areas might be more prone to bruising or tearing.

• Problems with urination: The opening where urine comes out (the urethra) might show changes.

• Bleeding, sores, and blisters: In some cases, the skin may bleed, blister, or develop open sores.

• Painful sex: Lichen sclerosus can sometimes make sexual activity painful.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's essential to see a doctor. Regular check-ups are also important if you've already been diagnosed with lichen sclerosus. Seeing your doctor every six months to a year can help monitor any changes in your skin and any potential side effects of treatment. Early detection and treatment are key to managing the condition effectively.

If you have symptoms of lichen sclerosus, it's important to see your doctor.

If you already have lichen sclerosus, you should see your doctor every six months to a year. These checkups are crucial. They allow your doctor to look for any new skin problems or unwanted effects from any treatment you might be taking.

Scientists don't fully understand why lichen sclerosus develops. It's probably due to a mix of things. One possibility is an immune system that's working too hard. Another is your genes. And past skin injuries or irritation could also play a role.

Importantly, lichen sclerosus is not contagious. You can't catch it from another person, and it's not spread through sexual contact.

Lichen sclerosus can affect anyone, but some groups have a higher chance of developing it. These groups include:

• Postmenopausal women: After menopause, a woman's body goes through hormonal changes, and this can sometimes increase the likelihood of lichen sclerosus.

• Children under 10: While less common, children can develop lichen sclerosus. This is often seen in young children and may be connected to their still developing immune systems.

• People with other autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune diseases, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, can sometimes increase the risk of lichen sclerosus. One example is hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones. Having an autoimmune condition might make someone more susceptible to this skin condition.

• Men with certain health issues: Men with urinary incontinence (difficulty controlling their bladder) or an uncircumcised penis may have a higher risk of developing lichen sclerosus. The reasons for this are not fully understood, but it could be related to factors like skin irritation in these situations.

• People with a family history of the disease: If someone in your family has had lichen sclerosus, you might have a slightly higher chance of getting it yourself. This suggests there might be a genetic component to the condition.

It's important to remember that these are just risk factors. Many people who fit these descriptions never develop lichen sclerosus, and anyone can get it. If you have concerns about lichen sclerosus, it's best to talk to a doctor.

Lichen sclerosus can cause several problems. It often leads to painful sex due to irritation and soreness. This condition can also cause noticeable scarring, sometimes affecting the clitoris.

In men, lichen sclerosus can scar the penis. This can make erections painful, make it harder to urinate normally, and sometimes prevent the foreskin from being pulled back.

Women with lichen sclerosus on the vulva are more likely to develop a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. This is why regular check-ups with a doctor are crucial.

Children with lichen sclerosus may have trouble with constipation. This is a common side effect that needs to be addressed by a doctor.

Doctors can often diagnose lichen sclerosus just by looking at the affected skin. However, sometimes a small skin sample needs to be examined under a microscope. This is called a biopsy. A biopsy might be necessary if the skin doesn't improve with steroid creams. A biopsy involves taking a tiny piece of the affected skin to check it closely.

If you have lichen sclerosus, you might also need to see specialists. A dermatologist (skin doctor) is a common specialist. A gynecologist (female reproductive health specialist) may be needed if the condition affects the genitals. A urologist (for urinary tract issues) or a pain management specialist might also be involved, depending on where the affected skin is and what symptoms you have.