Lichen Sclerosus in Perspective.

Lichen sclerosus (LS) was first described in women by a researcher in 1887.1 It was recognized in men by another investigator in 1928.2 Lichen sclerosus is a chronic, inflammatory lymphocytic dermatosis that occurs in anywhere from 1:30 to 1:1,000 adults.3,4 There is a slight predominance of women, with a bimodal age distribution in pre-pubertal individuals and again in life's sixth-seventh decades. Studies have established that the majority with pre-pubertal onset continue to have adulthood disease.5 Psychosocial implications of this disease, specifically self-image, anxiety, and sexual function, can be debilitating for patients.6-9 As no cure has been described for lichen sclerosus. Treatment is aimed at symptomatic relief and preventing additional effacement. Unfortunately, the scarring that occurs is usually permanent.10,11 As it is unclear whether treatment alters the theoretic risk of malignant degeneration, estimated at 4%-5%,12,13 frequent clinical examinations are indicated.14-17.

Sex-related Variations in Comorbidities in Lichen Sclerosus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The comorbidities of lichen sclerosus (LS) are presumed but have not been analysed in detail. The purpose of this review was to identify evidence-based associated diseases in patients with LS and explore the potential need for sex-dependent screening protocols. A comprehensive search of the MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO databases from inception to 29 February 2024 was conducted using the key search terms LS and all its synonyms. Pooled odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals of comorbidities were generated using the DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model. A total of 21 case-control studies met the inclusion criteria. Of the 75 comorbidities analysed, only 16 (21.3%) were studied in both sexes, revealing no contrasting associations based on sex. Both female and male LS patients showed significantly increased odds of common dermatological conditions (i.e., lichen planus, vitiligo, alopecia areata, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis), various cardiovascular risk factors (i.e., essential hypertension, obesity, dyslipidaemia, diabetes mellitus, and diabetes mellitus type 2), genital warts, and hypothyroidism compared with controls. Overall, the scarcity of data currently does not support the implementation of sex-dependent screening strategies. The findings do, however, present significant associations with a range of potentially serious comorbidities, which warrants further elucidation and clinical vigilance.

Exclusive extragenital lichen sclerosis in a child presenting in a lichen planus distribution.

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis primarily affecting the genitalia, commonly characterized by pearly-white papules and plaques. Although predominantly affecting females, LS can manifest across all age groups, with a bimodal distribution observed in prepubescent girls and postmenopausal women. This case report presents an unusual instance of exclusive extragenital LS in a 10-year-old girl, showcasing hyperpigmented patches and wrinkled plaques resembling lichen planus on her forearms and lower legs. Histopathological analysis confirmed LS, revealing distinctive epidermal changes and lymphocytic infiltrates. The absence of mucosal involvement and unique clinical presentation differentiated this case from typical LS manifestations. Treatment with topical clobetasol propionate demonstrated significant improvement in pruritus. Extragenital LS is infrequent, particularly among children, and its diagnosis necessitates a comprehensive clinicopathological correlation. The reported case contributes valuable insights into this uncommon variant, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies. Additionally, it highlights the efficacy of high-potency topical corticosteroids in managing this condition.

Extragenital lichen sclerosus et atrophicus-morphea overlap as an initial presentation of genital lichen sclerosus.

Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus (LSA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder, most often characterized by atrophic skin plaques located on female genitalia. Infrequently, LSA may present extragenitally; however, much is unknown about the temporal relationship between genital and extragenital LSA. Morphea, also known as localized scleroderma, is a rare inflammatory skin condition characterized by sclerotic plaques. Investigators debate whether LSA and morphea exist on the same spectrum of disease, with LSA representing a superficial variant of morphea involving genitalia, or if they are distinct but coincidental entities. Although researchers have described LSA and morphea occurring in different locations on the same patient, few reports describe LSA and morphea occurring in the same lesion and in the inguinal folds. Herein, we report a case of a 62-year-old woman with extragenital LSA-morphea overlap in the inguinal folds, who three months later developed genital LSA. Extragenital LSA-morphea in the same plaque, with no signs of genital lesions on initial exam, with later development of genital LSA, is especially uncommon. The temporal progression of extragenital LSA-morphea overlap to genital LSA over a three-month period is an important contribution to the literature, as the temporal relationship between extragenital and genital LSA is not previously discussed.

Anterior obturator artery perforator (aOAP) flap: A last-resort treatment option for sexual dysfunction in lichen sclerosus et atrophicus.

INTRODUCTION: Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus is an inflammatory, scarring dermatosis of the female anogenital area and may lead to pain and sexual dysfunction. In select cases which are refractory to conservative therapy, surgery may provide significant symptom improvement. The objective of this study was to expand the range of surgical treatment options for these patients by presenting the operative outcomes of a specialised reconstructive method using the anterior obturator artery perforator (aOAP) flap. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on sexual outcomes following the excision of affected vulvovestibular tissue by skinning vulvectomy and subsequent single-stage reconstruction using the aOAP flap. Additional procedures, such as the Omega-Domed (OD) flap, scar surgery and clitoral re-exposure, were performed when indicated. RESULTS: Between 2014 and 2022, a total of 61 patients were surgically treated and retrospectively included in this study. Vulvectomy and subsequent reconstruction with bilateral aOAP flaps were performed in 53 (87%) cases. There was a significant reduction in the prevalence of dyspareunia and inability to have sexual intercourse at the 1-year follow-up compared to baseline (p < 0.001). There were several minor, reversible complications that required secondary intervention. CONCLUSIONS: The outcomes of this study indicate a substantial improvement in sexual function, evidenced by a significant reduction in dyspareunia and an increased ability to engage in sexual intercourse. Altered tissue quality in patients with lichen sclerosus et atrophicus and long-term cortisone application may predispose this patient population to a higher risk of minor post-operative complications. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: DRKS00033261.

Meatal Surgery at the Time of Circumcision for Lichen Sclerosus (LS/BXO) Does Not Reduce the Need for Later Meatal Intervention: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

PURPOSE: We describe meatal outcomes for boys undergoing circumcision to treat Lichen Sclerosus (LS/BXO) with a focus on those who underwent meatotomy/meatoplasty at circumcision and factors associated with post-circumcision meatal intervention. METHODS: Retrospective review of patients undergoing circumcision for histologically confirmed LS between 2011 and 2020. Statistical testing was by Chi2 and multivariate analysis. RESULTS: 382 patients underwent circumcision at a mean of 9.1 years (SD 2.9). At circumcision, LS on the glans was documented in 213/365 (58%). Meatal involvement was documented in 74/382 (19%); 25/382 (6.5%) had a meatotomy, 94/382 (25%) had meatal calibration/dilatation and 234/367 (64%) were prescribed post-operative topical steroids. Patients with LS glans or meatal involvement were more likely to have a meatotomy (p = 0.0013) and to receive post-operative steroids (OR 5, p = 0.0001). Post circumcision, 40/382 (10%) required a median of 1 subsequent procedure (range 1-5), 10 (2.6%) underwent dilatation, 30 (7.4%) had a meatotomy. Patients undergoing meatotomy at circumcision had an odds ratio (OR) of 1.2 for subsequent meatotomy (p = 0.027). Analysis based on requirement for any subsequent procedure identified an OR of 3.1 for having had a meatotomy at circumcision (p = 0.022) and an OR of 6.0 of receiving post-operative steroids (p=<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Meatal stenosis following circumcision for LS requiring meatal intervention affected 10% of boys. Meatotomy at circumcision increased the likelihood of subsequent meatal intervention and is therefore not recommended. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Lasers in Gynecology.

The first published reports on the use of laser for cervical pathology date back to 1973. Technical advancements in flexible and rigid laser fibers revolutionized video laser laparoscopy in the 1990s. Fractionated lasers have been used to treat vulvovaginal symptoms associated with genitourinary syndrome of menopause, lichen sclerosus, and urinary incontinence. Review of available data suggests that fractionated lasers can improve both subjective and objective signs of vaginal atrophy and lichen sclerosus, but the evidence is weak because most of the trials are underpowered, are at risk for bias, and lack long-term follow-up. There is no strong evidence to support fractionated laser therapy for urinary incontinence or low-level laser therapy for chronic pelvic pain. Although short-term, single-arm trials suggest benefit of fractionated laser therapy for genitourinary syndrome of menopause, lichen sclerosus, and urinary incontinence, additional adequately powered, prospective, randomized, and longer-term comparative trials are needed before lasers can be recommended for these specific conditions. The purpose of this Clinical Expert Series is to review basic laser biophysics and the mechanism of action for modern fractionated lasers as relevant to the gynecologist. We also summarize safety and effectiveness data for lasers used for some of the most commonly studied gynecologic conditions: the vulvovaginal atrophy component of genitourinary syndrome of menopause, lichen sclerosus, and urinary incontinence.

Treatment algorithm for the comprehensive management of severe lichen sclerosus in boys based on the pathophysiology of the disease.

INTRODUCTION: It is estimated that approximately one out of 200 boys has the diagnosis of lichen sclerosus (LS), previously referred to as BXO (balanitis xerotica obliterans). Severe progressive disease is rare however, mismanagement of urethral tissues may contribute to progression of LS. STUDY DESIGN: The current literature regarding the management of severe lichen sclerosus was reviewed alongside our management of seven patients with ages ranging from six to ten years of age with severe lichen sclerosus who required surgical intervention. These patients were identified out of a busy pediatric practice that saw 5507 patients during the four-year span. Based on the pathophysiology of lichen sclerosus, urethral anatomy, and our management an algorithm was developed for medical and surgical management. RESULTS: All patients received initial medical treatment with topical steroids. Three patients underwent urethral mobilization and serial biopsy. One of these patients with severe disease required a second distal urethral mobilization. Three patients were treated with circumcision, and one is responding well to topical steroids after complex reconstruction. None developed postoperative urethral disease. DISCUSSION: Lichen sclerosus affects squamous epithelium but can extend to unaffected tissue if traumatized via the Koebner phenomenon. There are no randomized control trials for the management of the disease. Thus, appropriate early management with avoidance of urethral dilation or incision may prevent extension down the urethra that can lead to severe stricture disease. Several authors identified this as one of the worst forms of stricture diseases to manage. Based on the pathophysiology of the disease and our 4-year experience treating patients, we propose an algorithm for management of severe lichen sclerosus in boys. The diagnosis of lichen sclerosus in boys requires a high level of suspicion, and early biopsies should be obtained if suspected. If identified before circumcision or meatotomy, initial treatment should be medical. If the patient fails topical steroid therapy, circumcision and biopsy are the initial recommended surgical approach. Optimally, a biopsy with the first meatotomy establishes the diagnosis. If the disease persists, urethral mobilization may represent a curative treatment as it advances healthy urethra and allows complete removal of distal squamous epithelium instead of traumatic repeated dilations or incisions. CONCLUSION: This paper summarizes the available literature on the management of severe LS and provides a flow diagram based on the pathophysiology of the disease and our experience sever cases.

Lichen Sclerosus: A Survey of Diagnosis and Management Among Pediatric Dermatologists and Gynecologists.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic condition that warrants close follow-up due to the risk of scarring. The optimal long-term management of pediatric vulvar and perianal lichen sclerosus (PVPLS) is unknown. This study aimed to identify diagnostic, treatment, and maintenance regimens among pediatric dermatologists and pediatric/adolescent gynecologists, as well as assess provider confidence and desire for guidance on long-term PVPLS management. METHODS: A cross-sectional 35-question survey was administered through the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance (PeDRA) and the North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology (NASPAG) between 7/13/2021 and 8/30/2021 to ascertain PVPLS diagnostic and management regimens. RESULTS: Most responders were attending-level pediatric/adolescent gynecologists (46%) and pediatric dermatologists (41%). Although 85% of participants felt completely or very confident in diagnosing PVPLS, the majority (86%) desired further management guidelines. While the initial treatment was similar among providers, maintenance regimens and follow-up varied considerably, with only 42% recommending lifelong monitoring despite potential persistence into adulthood. CONCLUSIONS: While initial treatment was similar among practitioners, there was variation by specialty in subsequent management and a lack of uniformity in long-term follow-up. Additional studies are needed to clarify the optimal management of PVPLS and to provide evidence-based guidelines regarding long-term follow-up.  J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(6):450-455.     doi:10.36849/JDD.8084.

Clinical outcomes with utilization of high-potency topical steroids in patients with lichen sclerosus-associated vulvar cancer.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the impact of high-potency topical steroid use on risk of recurrence of lichen sclerosus-associated vulvar cancer. METHODS: This is a retrospective cohort study evaluating patients with lichen sclerosus (LS)- associated vulvar squamous cell cancer (VSCC). Demographic and clinical outcome data were compared between two comparison groups: patients who received steroids, mainly clobetasol, and patients who did not receive steroids following treatment of LS-related vulvar cancer. Categorical variables were compared using Fisher's exact test or chi-square test. Continuous variables were compared using a two-sided student's t-test. Time to recurrence (TTR) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival plot and compared using Mantel-Cox log rank test. Cox proportional hazard regression models were conducted to generate hazard ratios for both TTR and OS. A p value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 49 patients were included, with 36 patients receiving steroid treatment and 13 patients in the expectant management group. The median age of diagnosis was 68. The average BMI was 31.7 +/- 7.0. The median length of follow up was 41 months. The majority of patients were diagnosed with stage I VSCC. There was no difference in demographics or oncologic management of vulvar cancer between the two cohorts. Overall recurrence was decreased among patients who received steroid treatment when compared to patients who did not, 12 patients (33.3%) versus 9 patients (69.2%) respectively (p = 0.048). CONCLUSIONS: High-potency topical steroid use following treatment of lichen sclerosus-associated vulvar squamous cell carcinoma is associated with decreased risk of recurrence and prolonged median time to recurrence.

A Mimicker of Differentiated Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia: Reactive Atypia From Noncompliance With Lichen Sclerosus Therapy.

ABSTRACT: Differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (d-VIN) is an HPV-independent precursor to vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. The histology of d-VIN lesions is difficult to differentiate from that of non-neoplastic epithelial disorders, especially lichen sclerosus (LS). The authors present a case of LS, where relying on histopathology alone could have led to misdiagnosis. The patient was a 17-year-old female patient with clinical features of vulvar dermatitis and LS for 2 years. She was counseled to apply clobetasol 0.05% to the affected area daily but reported no improvement after 6 months. A biopsy of the right labia majora revealed histologic findings typical of d-VIN and near-contiguous p53 expression. These features are characteristic of d-VIN. However, d-VIN is exceedingly rare in young patients. The case was reviewed by 6 dermatopathologists and gynecologic pathologists, who observed that the degree of inflammation would be unusual postclobetasol therapy and could be due to noncompliance. A review of the patient's chart revealed that she "does not always remember to apply" clobetasol. The patient's clinician confirmed that there were compliance issues, and the follow-up biopsy was negative for d-VIN. The case was signed out as LS, with a note describing the above, and to rebiopsy if concern persisted. The authors conjecture that inflammatory infiltrates in the biopsied area caused reactive atypia due to lack of adherence to treatment. Although the patient's age helped rule out d-VIN, similar cases in elderly patients may be occurring. Pathologists must be aware that reactive forms of untreated LS can mimic d-VIN, to avoid misdiagnosis.

A case of multiple autoimmune syndrome comprising autoimmune thyroid disease, vitiligo, morphea, and lichen sclerosus.

Multiple autoimmune syndrome is a manifestation of polyautoimmunity with the co-occurrence of three or more autoimmune diseases in a single patient. We report a unique case of a 55-year-old female patient that presented with four autoimmune diseases: autoimmune thyroid disease, vitiligo, morphea, and lichen sclerosus. She was evaluated for progression of morphea and lichen sclerosus, and we confirmed histopathological overlapping of these two diseases in the same lesion. We discuss the increasing prevalence of autoimmune diseases and similar case reports on dermatological polyautoimmunity.

Risk Factors for Lichen Sclerosus: A Case-Control Study of 43,000 Finnish Women.

OBJECTIVES: Lichen sclerosus (LS) is an inflammatory skin disease probably arising from an interplay of genetics, local irritation, and autoimmune processes. We identified potential risk factors for the disease using data from nationwide Finnish registries. METHODS: We identified all women diagnosed with LS within specialized health care during 1998-2016 (n = 10,692) and selected 3 age-matched population control women for each case. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) for possible risk factors using conditional logistic regression. RESULTS: Dermatological autoimmune conditions were strongly associated with LS (OR = 15.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 13.6-16.7 for morphea; OR = 10.3, 95% CI = 5.02-19.0 for lichen planus; OR = 6.86, 95% CI = 5.65-8.33 for alopecia; OR = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.88-2.56 for vitiligo). A diagnosis of Crohn or celiac disease increased the odds of LS (OR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.71-1.89; OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.28-1.73, respectively) as did urge and stress incontinence (OR = 1.79, 95% CI = 1.71-1.87; OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.22-1.35, respectively).The odds of LS were lower in women after a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes (OR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.41-0.45), coronary artery disease (OR = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.38-0.43), and rheumatoid arthritis (OR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.36-0.41).Parous women had higher odds of LS (OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.04-1.17) than nulliparous ones, but increasing number of births decreased the risk. Lichen sclerosus was not associated with socioeconomic status nor the urbanicity level of the place of residence. CONCLUSIONS: Certain autoimmune diseases and urinary incontinence were associated with LS.

Attitudes Toward Proactive Topical Corticosteroid Use Among Women With Vulval Lichen Sclerosus.

OBJECTIVES: Some practitioners are adopting proactive topical corticosteroid (TCS) therapy for vulval lichen sclerosus (VLS). We sought to understand patient attitudes toward proactive TCS therapy for VLS in a context in which proactive therapy is adopted. METHODS: Four online focus group discussions with 12 participants. Data analysis was informed by social constructionist grounded theory. RESULTS: All participants had accepted a proactive regimen. Three themes were developed from the analysis: "Coming to accept proactive therapy," "Motivators to maintaining a proactive regimen," and "The importance of a routine that fits me." Within each theme are subthemes illustrating different dimensions of the theme. CONCLUSIONS: Accepting proactive TCS therapy for VLS requires incorporating regular TCS use into a patient's identity, unlearning previous understandings regarding the safety of long-term TCS use, and adopting a regimen that fits within patients' lives and minimizes the loss of autonomy.

Vulvar Lichenoid Dermatoses With Emphasis on the Distinction Between Lichen Sclerosus and Lichen Planus: A 10-Year Study.

OBJECTIVES: Lichen planus (LP) and lichen sclerosus (LS) are the most common vulvar lichenoid dermatoses. The diagnostic challenges are due to site-specific variation in microscopic appearance and small-sized biopsies. Authentication of diagnostic criteria to distinguish LS and LP to uncover any resemblance or divergence in presentation of these conditions is attempted. METHODS: Cases of vulvar LP and LS diagnosed between January 2012 to December 2022 were included. The clinical details included age, presenting symptoms, examination findings, and other organ involvement. Histopathological analysis of epidermal, dermal, and adnexal findings was done. RESULTS: There were 28 cases of vulvar LP and 72 cases of LS, with a median age of 51 and 60 years, respectively. Depigmentation and atrophy were the major clinical features in LS, whereas ulcers/erosions and erythema were more prevalent in LP with a significantly higher incidence of oral involvement. The most diagnostic feature in LS was diffuse dermal sclerosis (76.8%) and interstitial pattern of inflammation (81.4%), whereas the characteristic features in LP cases was a lichenoid pattern of inflammation (85.7%), necrotic keratinocytes, and lymphocytic exocytosis. In 44.4% of LS, unconventional features like compact orthokeratosis, parakeratosis, thickened/wedge-shaped hypergranulosis, and sawtooth rete pegs were noted. Lichen sclerosus with lichenoid inflammation (21.4%) mimicked LP, from which it was distinguished by presence of thickened or diminished granular layer with basal melanin absence (60%) and dermal homogenization (80%). CONCLUSION: Although the classical, well-established variant of LS poses no diagnostic difficulty, the unconventional variant may mimic LP. Identification of the subtle histological clues demonstrated in this study can help to arrive at the correct diagnosis.

Treatment of Refractory Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus With Methotrexate.

We report the successful treatment of severe vulvar lichen sclerosus refractory to topical corticosteroids in 3 adult female patients using low-dose oral methotrexate. All cases reported symptomatic and clinical improvement within 12 weeks.