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Laser Therapy for Recalcitrant Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: A Review of the Literature. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2022; 65:768-774. [PMID: 35385852 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0000000000000700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Vulvar lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic vulvar dermatosis potentially impacting quality of life and sexual function. While most women with LS respond to topical corticosteroids and/or calcineurin inhibitors, some require additional therapy. Systemic therapies have been used successfully in oral and vulvovaginal lichen planus with minimal data in the setting of LS. Likewise, while vaginal laser therapy has shown potential benefit for genitourinary syndrome of menopause, there is a paucity of data in the setting of LS. We review retrospective and prospective studies along with randomized controlled trials utilizing vulvovaginal laser for LS therapy.
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Mortensen OE, Christensen SE, Løkkegaard E. The evidence behind the use of LASER for genitourinary syndrome of menopause, vulvovaginal atrophy, urinary incontinence and lichen sclerosus: A state-of-the-art review. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2022; 101:657-692. [PMID: 35484706 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, LASER has been introduced as a minimally invasive treatment for a broad range of vaginal and vulvar symptoms and diseases. However, the efficacy and safety of vaginal and vulvar LASER has continuously been questioned. The aim of this study is to create an overview of the current literature and discuss the controversies within the use of LASER for genitourinary syndrome of menopause, vulvovaginal atrophy, urinary incontinence and lichen sclerosus. A search string was built in PubMed. The search was commenced on August 25, 2021 and closed on October 27, 2021. Two authors screened the studies in Covidence for inclusion according to the eligibility criteria in the protocol. The data were extracted from the studies and are reported in both text and tables. This review included 114 papers, of which 15 were randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The effect of LASER as a vaginal treatment was investigated for genitourinary syndrome of menopause in 36 studies (six RCTs), vulvovaginal atrophy in 34 studies (four RCTs) and urinary incontinence in 30 studies (two RCTs). Ten studies (three RCTs) investigated the effect of vulvar treatment for lichen sclerosus. Half of the included RCTs, irrespective of indication, did not find a significant difference in improvement in women treated with vaginal CO2 or Er:YAG LASER compared with their respective controls. However, most non-comparative studies reported significant improvement after exposure to vaginal or vulvar LASER across all indications. Included studies generally had a short follow-up period and only a single RCT followed their participants for more than 6 months post treatment. Adverse events were reported as mild and transient and 99 studies including 51 094 patients provided information of no serious adverse events. In conclusion, this review found that the effect of vaginal and vulvar LASER decreases with higher study quality where potential biases have been eliminated. We therefore stress that all patients who are treated with vaginal or vulvar LASER should be carefully monitored and that LASER for those indications as a treatment should be kept on a research level until further high-quality evidence is available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Engholt Mortensen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nordsjaellands Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Hillerød, Denmark
| | - Sarah Emilie Christensen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nordsjaellands Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Hillerød, Denmark
| | - Ellen Løkkegaard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nordsjaellands Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Hillerød, Denmark
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Kherlopian A, Fischer G. Does compliance to topical corticosteroid therapy reduce the risk of development of permanent vulvar structural abnormalities in pediatric vulvar lichen sclerosus? A retrospective cohort study. Pediatr Dermatol 2022; 39:22-30. [PMID: 34738263 DOI: 10.1111/pde.14840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis of the genital skin, with up to 20% of cases in the pediatric age group. Limited data exist concerning the prognosis of pediatric VLS, particularly the likelihood of permanent architectural change and whether this can be prevented by compliance with topical corticosteroid treatment (TCS). OBJECTIVE To evaluate the extent to which compliance to TCS treatment influences the risk of developing vulvar structural abnormalities, including clitoral phimosis and diminutive or fused labia minora. METHODS A retrospective chart review of case records of pediatric-age females with VLS between January 31, 2004 and January 31, 2021. RESULTS One hundred eighteen cases of VLS were identified, with a mean age at diagnosis of 7.25 years and a mean follow-up period of 42.7 months. Thirty-four girls were "partially compliant," whereas 84 were "compliant." The risk ratio (RR) of developing any vulvar structural abnormality or clitoral phimosis was 5.76 (95% CI 2.96-11.3) and 21.2 (95%CI 5.23-85.9) times higher, respectively, in partially compliant compared with compliant subjects. The RR of a partially compliant female with pre-pubertal onset VLS having a vulvar structural abnormality persisting beyond menarche was increased 3.54-fold relative to compliant females (95% CI 1.75-7.17). LIMITATIONS The retrospective nature of our data, lack of a control group, wide variability in follow-up duration, and nonstandardized method of stratifying compliance. CONCLUSION Vulvar structural abnormalities are common in prepubertal onset VLS. Compliance to TCS appears to be critical in the prognosis of pediatric VLS although attitudes underpinning noncompliance to TCS treatment require further elucidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashod Kherlopian
- Department of Dermatology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gayle Fischer
- Department of Dermatology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Stewart K, Javaid S, Schallen KP, Bartlett S, Carlson NA. Fractional CO 2 laser treatment as adjunctive therapy to topical steroids for managing vulvar lichen sclerosus. Lasers Surg Med 2021; 54:138-151. [PMID: 34541702 PMCID: PMC9292242 DOI: 10.1002/lsm.23476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Uncontrolled vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is often associated with distressful symptoms of genital itch, irritation, and pain and can lead to a pathological process including anatomical changes, scarring, and an elevated risk of cancer in the genital area. First‐line topical corticosteroid as monotherapy is frequently not adequate to fully suppress disease activity and control symptoms. This study evaluated the efficacy of fractional CO2 laser treatments as adjunctive therapy where recalcitrant VLS had been improved, but not adequately controlled, with topical corticosteroid treatment. Outcomes were evaluated up to 12 months after a series of CO2 laser treatments delivered via a fractional handpiece. Materials and Methods Women with a diagnosis of VLS supported by histologic findings on biopsy and/or clinical signs on physical examination received up to five monthly laser treatments. Subjects maintained existing topical corticosteroid and any exogenous hormone treatment during the study. Investigators assessed severity (0 = not present, 1 = mild, 2 = moderate, or 3 = severe) of clinical signs and architectural changes present before adjunctive study interventions and at follow‐up visits. Subjects reported the presence of clinical symptoms and impact on quality of life on 4‐ or 5‐point Likert scales. The validated Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used to assess changes in sexual function. Four subjects were biopsied before adjunctive laser treatment and at follow‐up. Results Twelve females, 11 postmenopausal, with a mean age of 57 ± 10 years received three to five monthly CO2 laser treatments. Significant improvement in all prominent clinical signs and architectural changes were reported at the 3‐ and 6‐month follow‐ups after the treatment series. Significant improvement was maintained at the 12‐month follow‐up, with 89% of subjects showing at least one‐point improvement in elasticity compared to baseline; 86% in lichenification; 88% in sclerosis; and 80% in whitening and parchment‐like skin. Labial fusion and the extent of disease improved in 50% of patients. Ulcerations present in three subjects at baseline resolved after treatment. Subjects reported 86% improvement in dyspareunia and 83% in skin tearing. Quality of life improved significantly after treatment (p < 0.01). The 6‐month follow‐up FSFI showed significant improvement in sexual function compared to baseline (p < 0.05), with a mean point improvement of 4.5. Histology findings after treatment showed some positive improvement, as a decrease in dermal hyalinized zone thickness. There were no treatment complications or adverse events related to the treatment. Conclusions Fractional CO2 laser treatment outcomes showed improvement in predominant clinical signs and architectural changes in VLS recalcitrant to topical corticosteroid treatment. Adjunctive laser treatment relieved symptoms and improved quality of life as well as sexual function. Fractional CO2 laser treatment may provide an advanced treatment modality for the management of recalcitrant VLS with improved patient care and sustainable outcomes. Further study in a larger population and with CO2 laser treatment to both vulvar tissue and the vaginal canal should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sunbal Javaid
- HERmd; Somi Javaid M.D. & Associates, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Sarah Bartlett
- HERmd; Somi Javaid M.D. & Associates, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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Papini M, Russo A, Simonetti O, Borghi A, Corazza M, Piaserico S, Feliciani C, Calzavara-Pinton P. Diagnosis and management of cutaneous and anogenital lichen sclerosus: recommendations from the Italian Society of Dermatology (SIDeMaST). Ital J Dermatol Venerol 2021; 156:519-533. [PMID: 33913663 DOI: 10.23736/s2784-8671.21.06764-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a disabling chronic inflammatory disease of skin and genital mucous membrane causing itch, pain, dysuria and restriction of micturition, and significant sexual dysfunction and dyspareunia both in women and men. If left untreated, LS is associated with a high degree of sclerosis and scarring, as well as with an elevated risk of cancer in the genital area. Although a central role of autoimmunity is suggested, the pathogenesis of LS is still not clearly understood and the disease remains difficult to treat. The goals of treatment of LS are to alleviate symptoms and discomfort, prevent anatomical changes and prevent malignant transformation. This guideline has been developed by an Italian group of experts. It summarizes evidence-based and expert- based recommendations. The highest level of evidence favors the use of topical high potency corticosteroids; second and third lines' treatments include topical calcineurin inhibitors and topical retinoids, respectively. Surgical treatment has become the treatment of choice in male genital LS with persistent phimosis not responsive to medical treatment. The aim of this paper is to offer evidencebased and easily applicable recommendations for the management of LS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Papini
- Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Ada Russo
- Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Oriana Simonetti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences-Dermatology, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Borghi
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Corazza
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefano Piaserico
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Claudio Feliciani
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy -
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Aboud C, Cristinelli S, Roccaro G, Meningaud JP, Hersant B. Surgical treatment of clitoral phimosis. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2020; 50:101919. [PMID: 32971308 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2020.101919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The clitoris has a crucial role in the feminine pleasure. Chronic inflammatory dermatosis along with post-menopausal atrophy of the vulva and obstetrical traumas can cause clitoral phimosis, thereby compromising its function. Medical treatments exist depending on the etiology, but when irreversible scarring occur, a surgical treatment can be necessary to regain its function. We present here our surgical technique that achieves excellent functional results with low morbidity and the outcome of our patients in order to improve this sexual dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Aboud
- Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, 51 avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, Créteil, 94010, France
| | - Stéphane Cristinelli
- Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, 51 avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, Créteil, 94010, France
| | - Giovanni Roccaro
- Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, 51 avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, Créteil, 94010, France
| | - Jean-Paul Meningaud
- Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, 51 avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, Créteil, 94010, France
| | - Barbara Hersant
- Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, 51 avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, Créteil, 94010, France.
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Krakowsky Y, Grober ED. A practical guide to female sexual dysfunction: An evidence-based review for physicians in Canada. Can Urol Assoc J 2018; 12:211-216. [PMID: 29485038 PMCID: PMC5994984 DOI: 10.5489/cuaj.4907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yonah Krakowsky
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Women's College Hospital & Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ethan D Grober
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Women's College Hospital & Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
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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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King M, Rubin R, Goldstein AT. Current Uses of Surgery in the Treatment of Genital Pain. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-014-0032-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Labial fusion causing recurrent cyst formation and a novel approach to surgical management. Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg 2013; 19:312-4. [PMID: 23982585 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0b013e318292460e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Labial fusion may occur as a result of lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, genital mutilation, obstetric laceration, and atrophic vaginitis. Koebner phenomenon, or reformation of scar tissue over the clitoris after trauma to the involved tissue, may confound attempts at surgical management. CASE A 22-year-old nulligravid patient presented with labia minora fusion that had been present since childhood. Her most bothersome symptoms were the recurrence of periclitoral pseudocysts with pain and discharge after spontaneous or needle drainage. Her symptoms and examination findings persisted despite a prolonged course of topical clobetasol, and she desired surgical intervention. A silastic vessel loop was placed through the tract between her clitoris and fused overlying labia. The ends of the vessel loop were brought together and tied in a fashion similar to cutting setons used to manage complex anal fistulae. Over the subsequent weeks, additional ties were used to sequentially tighten the loop and gradually divide the fused labia, ultimately exposing the patient's normal clitoris, which was uninjured by the procedure. Topical clobetasol was used throughout the process to prevent reagglutination of the labia. CONCLUSIONS Our experience suggests that adaptation of a cutting seton may be used effectively in the surgical management of labial fusion to allow for gradual division of the skin bridge while minimizing the risk of recurrence of agglutination.
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