Clinical Profile of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus

This dermatologic condition can occur alone or with superimposed lichen simplex chronicus.

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic, inflammatory dermatologic condition most often affecting the anogenital region, although it can occur on any skin surface.1 While both men and women can be affected, the disorder is much more common in women, accounting for up to 10% of presenting complaints at gynecology offices. The hallmark of LS is scarring with architectural changes to the affected tissue. Vulvar lichen sclerosus refers to disease localized to the vulva. The prevalence of lichen sclerosus is unclear, as the condition is frequently underdiagnosed and underreported (the latter because of asymptomatic presentations).2

Although vulvar LS usually presents in peri- or postmenopausal and prepubescent females, it can occur at any age; therefo…

Authors

Kathryn Welch, MD

Natalie Saunders, MD

Ebony Parker-Featherstone, MD

Hope K. Haefner, MD

Clinical Profile of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus

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Authors