Lichen Scheloris

[k333]

Does anyone have any experience with Lichen Scheloris? After 5 weeks of numerous doctors unable to find the reason for my itching, burnign and discomfort, they suspect I have lichen scheloris. I'm going for a biopsy in a few days with a dermatologist, but the information I've researched makes the disease sound pretty scary. Any information anyone can offer?
Thanks.

[k333]

I've been having itching/burning for the last 5 weeks in my vulva, and the area is VERY red and inflammed. I had 2 tests for yeast infections and bladder infections EACH(negative all 4 times), a pelvic ultrasound which came back normal, and I got a prescription for a 1% hyderm/1% clotrimaderm mixture cream which did absolutely nothing. The doctor I saw today suspects it is lichen sclerosis because she said the skin in my vulva has worn down to a thin consistency and she could see a white film over a certain area. I have no other lesions on my body and I am 25 years old.

She referred me to a dermatologist to try and confirm it is lichen sclerosis, possibly by doing a biopsy of the area. Lupus runs in my family, although I have tested negative for it in the past, but that would be the only autoimmune cause I can think of relating me to the skin disorder, IF the dermatologist confirms the diagnosis.

So for the next few days I just have to hang tight until I see my dermatologist.

Thank you for the help!!

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

Were you diagnosed with lichen slerosus? Is this correct?


Where is this itching and burning discomfort located? Was this first noted in the genital area? Are lesions present in other parts of the body?

How old are you?

Lichen sclerosus when it occurs in the genital area requires closer supervision and more aggressive management.In the other parts of the body,lichen slerosus may not be as itchy as those affecting the genitals. Topical high potency corticosteroids appear to be the therapy of choice.This condition is largely explained by an underlying immune related cause. Treatment options start with corticosteroids.Those who do not respond may be given hormone therapy. For younger individuals, this condition may resolve spontaneously .However, the complication one has to watch out for in this case especially for those with genital involvement is thinning of the genital skin and for women pain and difficulty in sexual contact.In this case, surgery may be an option.

Close communication is needed between you and your physician.This is extremely important in managing the condition. I know you are highly anxious about this.Lichen slerosus require much patience and understanding in your part also. Just keep the right attitude.Ask questions and seek out support groups.This may not be as bad as it sounds as other individuals with the disesae continue to live good fulfillng lives with proper medical care.