Lichen sclerosus (LS)

What is LS? 

• It is a skin condition that can affect any part of the body. It is most often in the vulva and anal area. 
• The skin can look:
  • White, shiny, and fragile
  • White, thickened, and callous-like 
  • Irritated and red
• LS may also be found in more than 1 family member, especially mother and daughter.
• You cannot get it from others. You cannot give it to others.   
• It is not a type of cancer. It can become cancer if not treated. People with LS may have a higher risk of getting vulvar skin cancer. 
• It happens most often in people who have gone through menopause, but it can happen at any age, even children.

What causes LS?

• The cause is not known. 
• Research suggests inflammatory cells of the immune system mistakenly attack the skin. This causes damage to the skin.

What are the signs and symptoms of LS?

• Mild to severe itching
• Skin tears or ulcers caused by scratching
• Bruised skin with small broken blood vessels
• Flattened or absent inner lips of the vulva (labia minor)
• Narrowed (smaller) opening of the vagina
• Buried clitoris (covered with skin)

Signs and symptoms can be different from person to person. They may get better and then worse at different times in your life. It may be worse during hot summer months when you are sweating more. More moisture can irritate skin.

Scarring

• Mild scarring can happen. Severe scarring is rare. Severe scarring can cause the opening of the vagina to be narrow (smaller). 
• Protect and treat your skin to help prevent this.

How is LS diagnosed?

• A provider will look for skin changes of the vulva.
• A biopsy (small piece of skin) might be needed to diagnose LS.

How is LS treated?

• Treatment may help with symptoms. This is a chronic (long-term) condition. 
• Have regular follow-up visits with your provider. Call your provider if you have any skin changes.

It may be treated with:

• Skin care guidelines. Always follow the Skin Care Guidelines you are given.
• Steroid ointments or creams
  • Use as told.
  • This will help lessen redness, itching, and irritation.
• Tacrolimus (Protopic^®) ointment 0.1% or 0.3%:
  • Use as told.
  • It helps lessen redness, itching, and irritation. 
  • This may cause a slight burning when put on.

Use medicines only as prescribed by your provider. This will lessen side effects.