Open AccessAnogenital lichen sclerosus
Author(s) -
Manjyot Gautam,
Vasundhara Singh,
Nitin Nadkarni,
Sharmila Patil
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
indian journal of sexually transmitted diseases and aids
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2589-0565
pISSN - 2589-0557
DOI - 10.4103/ijstd.ijstd_49_17
Subject(s) - lichen sclerosus , medicine , asymptomatic , etiology , physical examination , disease , dermatology , calcineurin , surgery , pediatrics , pathology , transplantation
Lichen sclerosus (LS) was first described by Hallopeau in 1887. It is a chronic inflammatory condition most commonly involving the anogenital region with a relapsing course and a potential for destruction, functional impairment, atrophy, and malignant changes. LS affects both sexes with a female preponderance of 5:1. The exact prevalence of the disease is difficult to predict as the lesions are asymptomatic in the initial phase and later when the complications arise patients might visit the surgeon, pediatrician, gynecologist, or urologist. The etiology of LS has a complex interplay of genetic factors, autoimmunity, infections, and trauma. Physical examination to assess the extent of the disease and decide the line of management is the most crucial step in the management. Corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitor, retinoids, phototherapy, and surgery can be helpful. Self-examination and long-term follow-up are necessary.