What is Lichen Sclerosus

Lichen Sclerosus description. Find out what Lichen Sclerosus is and know more about it.

Lichen Sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the genital and anal areas, but can also occur on other parts of the body. It is more common in women, especially postmenopausal women, but can also affect men and children.

Characterized by thinning, whitening, and tightening of the skin, lichen sclerosus can cause itching, discomfort, and pain. In severe cases, it may lead to scarring and distortion of the affected areas. The exact cause of lichen sclerosus is unknown, but it is believed to involve an autoimmune response and hormonal factors.

While there is no cure for lichen sclerosus, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. This may involve the use of topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching, as well as regular monitoring to detect any potential development of skin cancer. It is important for individuals with lichen sclerosus to maintain good hygiene, avoid irritants, and seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and management.

Diseasemaps

General Discussion
Lichen sclerosus is a chronic skin disorder that most commonly affects post-menopausal women. However, it is sometimes identified among pre-menopausal women, and, even more rarely, among males. When found in males, the disease is known as balanitis xerotica obliterans.

Lichen sclerosus is characterized by skin changes of the external genitalia (i.e., vulva, head of the penis), although other parts of the body may also be affected. Intense itching often accompanies attacks of lichen sclerosus. The disorder is not contagious nor is it a sexually transmitted disease. In the recent past, a genetic component for lichen sclerosus has been recognized. In addition, many clinical researchers believe that it is a disorder of the immunological system. The understanding of the causes of this disorder is still incomplete. Lichen sclerosus can develop concurrently with other conditions.
https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/lichen-sclerosus/

Posted Jan 9, 2018 by LBelle 1550

A skin disorder also called an autoimmune disease

Posted Aug 25, 2018 by Tbreck 2500

A disease that shows up as a raw irritated vulva area. The skin turns white and it itches a lot. It is very painful and causes mental anguish for those that have it.

Posted Oct 12, 2018 by Allicia 2500

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a skin disease of unknown cause, commonly appearing as whitish patches on the genitals, which can affect any body part of any person but has a strong preference for the genitals (penis, vulva) and is also known as balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO) when it affects the penis. Lichen sclerosus is not contagious. There is a well-documented increase of skin cancer risk in LS, potentially improvable with treatment. LS in adult age is normally incurable, but improvable with treatment, and often gets progressively worse.

Posted Apr 26, 2019 by Kelly 3100

Lichen Sclerosus is believed to be Autoimmune, this is where the immune system flags healthy skin cells (such as the vulva) as a virus or antibody and attacks it as it would with a virus or flu. This what causes the symptoms and flare ups.

Posted May 26, 2019 by Emma 3560

It is a skin disorder generally affecting the genitalia areas. Previously thought to be menopausal or peri menopausal woman predominately but that is changing. It may resemble psoriasis and eczema. It is important to know that it is not contagious, that you person affected did NOTHING to get it, there was not known way to prevent it. It must be treated my a medical professional. 60% of vulvar cancers come from LS. LS does not grow in the vagina.

Posted Aug 22, 2019 by Diann 2500