What is lichen sclerosus?

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What is lichen sclerosus?​

Lichen sclerosus is a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder that most often affects genital and perianal areas. Older names for lichen sclerosus include lichen sclerosus et atrophicus, kraurosis vulvae (in women), and balanitis xerotica obliterans (in males).

How often should I see a doctor for lichen sclerosus?​

If you’ve already been diagnosed with lichen sclerosus, see your doctor every six to 12 months to be checked for any skin changes or treatment side effects. The cause of lichen sclerosus is unknown. An overactive immune system or an imbalance of hormones may play a role.
Does circumcision help lichen sclerosus?
Circumcision can relieve pain and pressure. An essential part of treatment for lichen sclerosus includes regular checkups with your provider. Your provider will watch for signs of skin cancer and help you prevent scarring around the genitals. Can I prevent lichen sclerosus?
What does lichen sclerosus look like on the tongue?
The lesions consist of bluish-white flat irregular patchy areas on the inside of the cheeks and/or palate. The tongue, lips, and gums may also be involved. The exact cause of lichen sclerosus is not known. Most research indicates it is an autoimmune condition.

Is lichen sclerosus contagious?​

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a skin disease and commonly appears as whitish patches on the genitals. LS may affect any body part of any person but has a strong preference for the genitals. Lichen sclerosus is not contagious. LS in adult age is normally incurable.

What is lichen planus (LP)?​

Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory and immune mediated disease. It commonly affects oral mucosa, skin, genital mucosa, scalp and nails. Middle-aged adults are more likely to suffer from this disease. It is mainly characterized by:
What happens if you have lichen planus in Your Eyes?
Eyes. Rarely, lichen planus may involve the mucous membrane surfaces of the eyes, and can cause scarring and blindness. Esophagus. Lichen planus of the esophagus is rare, but when it occurs, it may result in a narrowing of the esophagus or the formation of tightened, ringlike bands in the esophagus that can make swallowing difficult.

Can lichen sclerosus come back after treatment?
Treatment for lichen sclerosus can relieve symptoms, but they may come back. For some people, genital scarring can cause problems going to the bathroom or having sex. Some of these problems may be severe. People with lichen sclerosus have a higher risk of developing a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma.
If you have signs and symptoms common to lichen sclerosus, make an appointment with your primary care doctor. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions (dermatologist). Here’s some information to help you get ready for your appointment.
Take an oral antihistamine at bedtime to help control the itching as you try to sleep. If you have signs and symptoms common to lichen sclerosus, make an appointment with your primary care doctor. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions (dermatologist).
How does the autoimmune registry support research for lichen sclerosus?
The Autoimmune Registry supports research for Lichen sclerosus by collecting information about patients with this and other autoimmune diseases. You can join the registry to share your information with researchers and receive updates about participating in new research studies. Learn more about registries.
What should I do if I have genital lichen sclerosus?
Lifelong regular self-examination is very important for all females who have had genital lichen sclerosus. If any skin changes develop which do not respond to steroid creams, in particular any skin thickening, soreness or ulceration lasting more than two weeks, you need to tell your doctor without delay.