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Kirtschig G, Kinberger M, Kreuter A, Simpson R, Günthert A, van Hees C, Becker K, Ramakers MJ, Corazza M, Müller S, von Seitzberg S, Boffa MJ, Stein R, Barbagli G, Chi CC, Dauendorffer JN, Fischer B, Gaskins M, Hiltunen-Back E, Höfinger A, Köllmann NH, Kühn H, Larsen HK, Lazzeri M, Mendling W, Nikkels AF, Promm M, Rall KK, Regauer S, Sárdy M, Sepp N, Thune T, Tsiogka A, Vassileva S, Voswinkel L, Wölber L, Werner RN. EuroGuiderm guideline on lichen sclerosus-Treatment of lichen sclerosus. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2024. [PMID: 38822598 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.20083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lichen sclerosus (LS) is an inflammatory skin disease affecting all ages. LS typically involves the anogenital site where it causes itching and soreness; it may lead to sexual and urinary dysfunction in females and males; however, it may be asymptomatic. First signs of LS are usually a whitening of the genital skin, sometimes preceded by redness and oedema; fissuring, scarring, shrinkage and fusion of structures may follow in its course. LS is associated with an increased risk of genital cancer. LS has a huge impact on the quality of life of affected patients, and it is important to raise more awareness of this not uncommon disease in order to diagnose and treat it early. OBJECTIVES The guideline intends to provide guidance on the diagnostic of LS (part 1), highlight important aspects in the care of LS patients, generate recommendations and treatment algorithms (part 2) on topical, interventional and surgical therapy, based on the latest evidence, provide guidance in the management of LS patients during pregnancy, provide guidance for the follow-up of patients with LS and inform about new developments and potential research aspects. MATERIALS AND METHODS The guideline was developed in accordance with the EuroGuiDerm Methods Manual v1.3 https://www.edf.one/de/home/Guidelines/EDF-EuroGuiDerm.html. The wording of the recommendations was standardized (as suggested by the GRADE Working Group). The guideline development group is comprised of 34 experts from 16 countries, including 5 patient representatives. RESULTS Ultrapotent or potent topical corticosteroids in females and males, adults and children remain gold standard of care for genital LS; co-treatment with emollients is recommended. If standard treatment fails in males, a surgical intervention is recommended, complete circumcision may cure LS in males. UV light treatment is recommended for extragenital LS; however, there is limited scientific evidence. Topical calcineurin inhibitors are second line treatment. Laser treatment, using various wave lengths, is under investigation, and it can currently not be recommended for the treatment of LS. Treatment with biologics is only reported in single cases. CONCLUSIONS LS has to be diagnosed and treated as early as possible in order to minimize sequelae like scarring and cancer development. Topical potent and ultrapotent corticosteroids are the gold standard of care; genital LS is often a lifelong disease and needs to be treated long-term.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Kirtschig
- Medbase Health Centre, Frauenfeld, Switzerland
| | - M Kinberger
- Division of Evidence-Based Medicine (dEBM), Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Kreuter
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, HELIOS St. Elisabeth Hospital Oberhausen, Oberhausen, Germany
| | - R Simpson
- Centre of Evidence Based Dermatology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - A Günthert
- Gynäkologisches Tumorzentrum St. Anna, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - C van Hees
- Department of Dermatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - K Becker
- Office for Paediatric Surgery, Bonn, Germany
| | - M J Ramakers
- CenSeRe (Centre for Psychological, Relational, Sexual Health), Voorschoten, The Netherlands
| | - M Corazza
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - S Müller
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - M J Boffa
- Department of Dermatology, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
| | - R Stein
- Center for Pediatric, Adolescent and Reconstructive Urology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Medical Center Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - G Barbagli
- Centro Chirurgico Toscano, Arezzo, Italy
| | - C C Chi
- Department of Dermatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - J N Dauendorffer
- Department of Dermatology, Centre for Genital and Sexually Transmitted Diseases, University Hospital Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - B Fischer
- The Swiss Lichen Sclerosus Association, Switzerland/Verein Lichen Sclerosus e.V., Dottikon, Switzerland
| | - M Gaskins
- Division of Evidence-Based Medicine (dEBM), Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - E Hiltunen-Back
- Department of Dermatovenereology, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A Höfinger
- The Swiss Lichen Sclerosus Association, Switzerland/Verein Lichen Sclerosus e.V., Dottikon, Switzerland
| | - N H Köllmann
- The Swiss Lichen Sclerosus Association, Switzerland/Verein Lichen Sclerosus e.V., Dottikon, Switzerland
| | - H Kühn
- The German Lichen Sclerosus Association, Hamburg, Germany
| | - H K Larsen
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - M Lazzeri
- Department of Urology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, MI, Italy
| | - W Mendling
- German Center for Infections in Gynecology and Obstetrics, Helios University Hospital Wuppertal-University Witten/Herdecke, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - A F Nikkels
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - M Promm
- Department of Paediatric Urology and Clinic St. Hedwig, University Medical Centre of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - K K Rall
- Department of Women's Health, Women's University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - S Regauer
- Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - M Sárdy
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Dermatooncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - N Sepp
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Ordensklinikum Linz Elisabethinen, Linz, Austria
| | - T Thune
- Department of Dermatology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - A Tsiogka
- 1st Department of Dermatology-Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Andreas Sygros Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - S Vassileva
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital "Alexandrovska", Medical University - Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - L Voswinkel
- The German Lichen Sclerosus Association, Hamburg, Germany
| | - L Wölber
- Department of Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf and Centre for Colposcopy and Vulvovaginal Disease Jersualem Hospital Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - R N Werner
- Division of Evidence-Based Medicine (dEBM), Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Popa A, Dumitrascu MC, Petca A, Petca RC, Sandru F. Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: Navigating Sex Hormone Dynamics and Pioneering Personalized Treatment Paradigm. J Pers Med 2024; 14:76. [PMID: 38248777 PMCID: PMC10817476 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14010076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a frequently overlooked inflammatory disorder affecting the skin and mucous membranes of the vulva. With a propensity for atrophy, severe scarring, functional impairment, and malignant evolution, VLS is a disease that recurs frequently; early diagnosis, rapid treatment, and ongoing patient follow-up are essential. Potent topical corticosteroids (TCSs) are now widely recognized as the most effective treatment for achieving remission in VLS, but considering the potential complications of long-term treatment with potent TCSs, understanding the evolution of VLS during puberty becomes particularly crucial in determining the necessity for aggressive or more conservative therapeutic interventions. Emerging treatments, including PRP (platelet-rich plasma), stem cell therapy, and energy-based lasers like fractional CO2 and Nd-YAG, are being investigated to identify more effective VLS treatments than ultrapotent topical corticosteroids. However, more research is needed to assess the efficacy and safety of these new medicines. Topical clobetasol 0.05% ointment daily for 4-12 weeks is the gold standard for treating VLS. This article is a narrative review of the English-language medical literature from 2017 to November 2023, following three main sections concerning VLS: studies of the evolution amid pubertal hormonal changes; studies of the outcomes of personalized conventional therapies; and studies addressing the spectrum of innovative modalities for VLS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelina Popa
- Department of Dermatovenerology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.P.); (F.S.)
- Dermatology Department, “Elias” University Emergency Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Cristian Dumitrascu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Emergency Hospital of Bucharest, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Aida Petca
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Elias” Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Razvan-Cosmin Petca
- Department of Urology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Urology, ‘Prof. Dr. Th. Burghele’ Clinical Hospital, 050659 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florica Sandru
- Department of Dermatovenerology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.P.); (F.S.)
- Dermatology Department, “Elias” University Emergency Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
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Williams NM, Randolph M, Rajabi-Estarabadi A, Keri J, Tosti A. Hormonal Contraceptives and Dermatology. Am J Clin Dermatol 2021; 22:69-80. [PMID: 32894455 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-020-00557-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Hormones play a significant role in normal skin physiology and many dermatologic conditions. As contraceptives and hormonal therapies continue to advance and increase in popularity, it is important for dermatologists to understand their mechanisms and dermatologic effects given the intricate interplay between hormones and the skin. This article reviews the dermatologic effects, both adverse and beneficial, of combined oral contraceptives (COCs), hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, injections, and vaginal rings. Overall, the literature suggests that progesterone-only methods, such as implants and hormonal IUDs, tend to trigger or worsen many conditions, including acne, hirsutism, alopecia, and even rosacea. Therefore, it is worthwhile to obtain detailed medication and contraceptive histories on patients with these conditions. There is sufficient evidence that hormonal contraceptives, particularly COCs and vaginal rings, may effectively treat acne and hirsutism. While there are less data to support the role of hormonal contraceptives in other dermatologic disorders, they demonstrate potential in improving androgenetic alopecia and hidradenitis suppurativa.
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Etiology, Clinical Features, and Diagnosis of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: A Scoping Review. Obstet Gynecol Int 2020; 2020:7480754. [PMID: 32373174 PMCID: PMC7191405 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7480754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective. Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a chronic inflammatory disorder, which affects women of all ages. With numerous controversies as regards to the nomenclature, diagnosis and its association with neoplastic conditions, we decided to conduct a scoping review on this subject. Data Source. A review protocol was developed, and the Knowledge Resource Services website was used to do a search of articles pertaining to VLS with keywords “Vulvar,” “Vulval,” “diagnosis,” “lichen sclerosus et atrophicus,” “kraurosis,” “vulvar dystrophy,” and “Lichen Sclerosus”. Study Selection. The search was limited to published data from the last ten years, i.e., from July 2009 onwards and in the English language. A total of 338 articles pertaining to VLS were obtained. Older data were accessed if particular information was sought for. Results & Conclusion. The presentation is bimodal, i.e., one in prepubertal girls (average age: 7.6 years) and the other in peri- and postmenopausal women (average age: 52.6 years). However, many cases also present during reproductive years. Studies suggest a multifactorial origin as far as etiology is concerned, including a genetic, autoimmune, hormonal, and local infectious background. It affects the genital labial, perineal, and perianal areas and manifests as a patchy, thin, glistening, ivory-white area. Diagnosis is mainly based on clinical features. Biopsy is seldom required. It has been well established as a precursor lesion of dVIN and vulvar carcinoma.
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Traish AM, Vignozzi L, Simon JA, Goldstein I, Kim NN. Role of Androgens in Female Genitourinary Tissue Structure and Function: Implications in the Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause. Sex Med Rev 2018; 6:558-571. [PMID: 29631981 DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2018.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Genitourinary conditions in women increase in prevalence with age. Androgens are prerequisite hormones of estrogen biosynthesis, are produced in larger amounts than estrogens in women, and decrease throughout adulthood. However, research and treatment for genitourinary complaints have traditionally focused on estrogens to the exclusion of other potential hormonal influences. AIM To summarize and evaluate the evidence that androgens are important for maintaining genitourinary health in women and that lack of androgenic activity can contribute to the development of symptoms of the genitourinary syndrome of menopause. METHODS The role of androgens in the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause was discussed by an international and multidisciplinary panel during a consensus conference organized by the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health. A subgroup further examined publications from the PubMed database, giving preference to clinical studies or to basic science studies in human tissues. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Expert opinion evaluating trophic and functional effects of androgens, their differences from estrogenic effects, and regulation of androgen and estrogen receptor expression in female genitourinary tissues. RESULTS Androgen receptors have been detected throughout the genitourinary system using immunohistochemical, western blot, ligand binding, and gene expression analyses. Lower circulating testosterone and estradiol concentrations and various genitourinary conditions have been associated with differential expression of androgen and estrogen receptors. Supplementation of androgen and/or estrogen in postmenopausal women (local administration) or in ovariectomized animals (systemic administration) induces tissue-specific responses that include changes in androgen and estrogen receptor expression, cell growth, mucin production, collagen turnover, increased perfusion, and neurotransmitter synthesis. CONCLUSION Androgens contribute to the maintenance of genitourinary tissue structure and function. The effects of androgens can be distinct from those of estrogens or can complement estrogenic action. Androgen-mediated processes might be involved in the full or partial resolution of genitourinary syndrome of menopause symptoms in women. Traish AM, Vignozzi L, Simon JA, et al. Role of Androgens in Female Genitourinary Tissue Structure and Function: Implications in the Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause. Sex Med Rev 2018;6:558-571.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulmaged M Traish
- Department of Urology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - James A Simon
- Women's Health & Research Consultants, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Noel N Kim
- Institute for Sexual Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. R. Pérez-López
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital Universitario Lozano-Blesa, University of Zaragoza Faculty of Medicine, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - P. Vieira-Baptista
- Lower Genital Tract Disease Unit, Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal
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Kirtschig G, Becker K, Günthert A, Jasaitiene D, Cooper S, Chi CC, Kreuter A, Rall KK, Aberer W, Riechardt S, Casabona F, Powell J, Brackenbury F, Erdmann R, Lazzeri M, Barbagli G, Wojnarowska F. Evidence-based (S3) Guideline on (anogenital) Lichen sclerosus. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2015. [PMID: 26202852 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.13136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is an inflammatory skin disease that usually involves the anogenital area. All patients with symptoms or signs suspicious of lichen sclerosus should be seen at least once initially by a physician with a special interest in the disease in order to avoid delay in diagnosis, as early treatment may cure the disease in some and reduce or prevent scarring. The diagnosis is made clinically in most cases. Biopsies should only be performed under certain circumstances. The gold standard for treatment remains potent to very potent topical steroids; however, mild and moderate disease in boys and men may be cured by circumcision. Certain triggers should be avoided. http://www.euroderm.org/images/stories/guidelines/2014/S3-Guideline-on-Lichen-sclerosus.pdf http://www.awmf.org/fachgesellschaften/mitgliedsgesellschaften/visitenkarte/fg/deutsche-gesellschaft-fuer-gynaekologie-und-geburtshilfe-dggg.html.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Kirtschig
- Centre of Evidence Based Dermatology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,Institute of General Practice and Interprofessional Care, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - K Becker
- (representing the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Kinderchirurgie), Office for Paediatric surgery, Bonn, Germany
| | - A Günthert
- (representing the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, DGGG), Deptartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - D Jasaitiene
- (representing the Lithuanian Association of Dermatovenereologists), Department of Skin and Venereal Diseases of Republican Hospital of Panevezys, Panevezys, Lithuania
| | - S Cooper
- Department of Dermatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - C-C Chi
- Department of Dermatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - A Kreuter
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, HELIOS St. Elisabeth Hospital Oberhausen, Oberhausen, Germany
| | - K K Rall
- Research Centre and Department for Women's Health, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - W Aberer
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - S Riechardt
- (representing the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Urologie), Department of Urology and paediatric Urology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - F Casabona
- Dirigente Medico, S. C. Chirurgia Plastica, Chirurgia Plastica Rigenerativa, Ospedale Andrea Gallino, Genova-Pontedecimo, Italy
| | - J Powell
- Department of Dermatology, Hampshire Hospitals foundation Trust, Hampshire, UK
| | - F Brackenbury
- (patient representative) www.lichensclerosus.org, Association for Lichen Sclerosus and Vulval Health, Oxford, UK
| | - R Erdmann
- (development of the search strategy and performance of the literature search), Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Division of Evidence Based Medicine, Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Lazzeri
- Centro Chirurgico Toscano, Arezzo, Italy
| | - G Barbagli
- Centro Chirurgico Toscano, Arezzo, Italy
| | - F Wojnarowska
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Origoni M, Gelardi C, Salvatore S, Candiani M. Lichen sclerosus of the vulva. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/eog.12.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Günthert AR, Faber M, Knappe G, Hellriegel S, Emons G. Early onset vulvar Lichen Sclerosus in premenopausal women and oral contraceptives. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2008; 137:56-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2007.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2007] [Revised: 08/21/2007] [Accepted: 10/12/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Pugliese JM, Morey AF, Peterson AC. Lichen sclerosus: review of the literature and current recommendations for management. J Urol 2007; 178:2268-76. [PMID: 17936829 DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2007.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We reviewed the literature regarding the clinical presentation, etiology, natural history, and medical and surgical management of lichen sclerosus in men. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a comprehensive search of the literature in PubMed, MEDLINE and other electronic databases between 1950 and 2006 using the key words lichen sclerosis, balanitis xerotica obliterans and urethral stricture. Our search resulted in 1,268 sources containing the words lichen sclerosus or balanitis xerotica obliterans. We reviewed 68 articles in the peer reviewed journals and 2 chapters on this subject. RESULTS Lichen sclerosus is a chronic, lymphocyte mediated skin disease that was first described in 1887. It shows a predilection for the anogenital area in men and women. Much has been discovered regarding the epidemiology, natural history and histological features of this disease process during the last century, including the discovery of a strong association between lichen sclerosus and squamous cell carcinoma. The techniques of medical and surgical management of this disorder are still being elucidated. Biopsy of the initial lesion for definitive diagnosis and long-term followup of affected patients are well established, critical elements in the management of lichen sclerosus. CONCLUSIONS Lichen sclerosus is a chronic, debilitating condition that may progress to cause significant voiding complications. Biopsy is recommended in all patients suspected of having lichen sclerosus to rule out squamous cell carcinoma. Further research is needed to improve the prevention, understanding and treatment of this challenging condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Pugliese
- Department of Surgery, Urology Service, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, Washington 98431, USA
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Ayhan A, Guven S, Guvendag Guven ES, Sakinci M, Gultekin M, Kucukali T. Topical testosterone versus clobetasol for vulvar lichen sclerosus. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2007; 96:117-21. [PMID: 17239881 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2006.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2006] [Revised: 08/08/2006] [Accepted: 09/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the effects of topical testosterone and clobetasol treatments on symptoms remission and recurrence rates in patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus (LS). METHODS A retrospective review of the records showed that, of 140 patients with biopsy-proven vulvar LS, 80 were treated with applications of testosterone propionate 2% in petrolatum and 60 with clobetasol 17-propionate 0.05%. RESULTS The response rates after 6 months were 77.5% for patients treated with testosterone and 91.7% for those treated with clobetasol (P=0.02). The recurrence rates were 20% and 6.7% in the 2 groups, respectively (P=0.02). Premenopausal patients had higher remission rates and lower recurrence rates than postmenopausal patients (P>0.05). Considering whole patients, low remission rates and high recurrence rates were observed in patients who had had a hysterectomy (P>0.05). CONCLUSION Treatment of LS with a corticosteroid provided excellent remission rates. In this study, clobetasol 17-propionate 0.05% was superior to testosterone for both remission induction and maintenance therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ayhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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