Contents
What is Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus? A Chronic Skin Condition You Need to Know About
Published: Mar 22, 2024
Vulvar lichen sclerosus is a chronic skin condition that affects the genital area. It can cause itching, pain, and changes to the vulvar skin that may impact quality of life.
What Does Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus Look Like?
Vulvar lichen sclerosus typically causes the skin to become thin, white, and wrinkled. You may notice whitish patches, redness, or sores on the vulva. The skin can become fragile and tear easily. In some cases, scarring can occur that changes the appearance of the vulvar area.
What Causes the Symptoms?
The exact cause is unknown, but it's thought to be related to an overactive immune system. Hormones may also play a role. The condition leads to inflammation and changes in the skin that cause the characteristic symptoms. Itching and discomfort occur as the skin becomes irritated and damaged.
Who's At Risk?
Vulvar lichen sclerosus can affect women of all ages, but it's most common in postmenopausal women. It occasionally occurs in young girls before puberty as well. Having an autoimmune disease may increase your risk. The condition is not contagious or sexually transmitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, but it's manageable with proper treatment.
There's a slightly increased risk of vulvar cancer.
No, it requires ongoing treatment and monitoring.
The Bottom Line
While vulvar lichen sclerosus is a chronic condition, proper treatment can control symptoms and prevent complications.
References
- Lewis FM, Tatnall FM, Velangi SS, et al. British Association of Dermatologists guidelines for the management of lichen sclerosus, 2018. Br J Dermatol 2018; 178:839.
- Lee A, Bradford J, Fischer G. Long-term Management of Adult Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: A Prospective Cohort Study of 507 Women. JAMA Dermatol 2015; 151:1061.
- Kirtschig G, Becker K, Günthert A, et al. Evidence-based (S3) Guideline on (anogenital) Lichen sclerosus. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2015; 29:e1.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?