Pathophysiology, Clinical Manifestations, and Treatment of Lichen Sclerosus: A Systematic Review.
Urology
; 135: 11-19, 2020 Jan.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-31605681
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE:
To elucidate current understanding on the pathophysiological mechanism of genital lichen sclerosus (LS), urologic manifestations, and treatment options. MATERIALS ANDMETHODS:
The Medline/PubMed and Embase databases were systematically reviewed for publications pertaining to LS. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, references were assessed for relevance to the pathophysiology, presentation, and treatment of LS by title and abstract review by 2 independent reviewers, yielding 186 articles for assessment.RESULTS:
The contemporary understanding of the epidemiology and histology of LS is reviewed herein. Additionally, we explore in detail the 3 hypotheses regarding the pathophysiological mechanism contributing to disease presentation infectious etiology, primary immune dysregulation, and the isotraumatopic response. We summarize the available biological evidence supporting each hypothesis. This discussion provides context for understanding LS morbidity and may spur new avenues of research. For the clinician, we review the clinical presentation of disease, including the risk of progression to squamous cell carcinoma. The current medical and surgical treatment options are also detailed.CONCLUSION:
LS remains a potentially insidious disease which may lead to debilitating urinary and sexual dysfunction. Cross disciplinary research should aim for earlier detection, as well as more effective and durable treatment. The exact cause of LS remains unknown.
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus
/
Balanitis Xerotica Obliterans
/
Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus
Type of study:
Diagnostic_studies
/
Prevalence_studies
/
Risk_factors_studies
/
Systematic_reviews
Limits:
Female
/
Humans
/
Male
Language:
En
Journal:
Urology
Year:
2020
Document type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Canada