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Chaudhari AS, McFadden JR, Bentz J, Evans RH, Selim MA, Sriharan A. A Mimicker of Differentiated Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia: Reactive Atypia From Noncompliance With Lichen Sclerosus Therapy. Am J Dermatopathol 2024; 46:519-522. [PMID: 38648048 DOI: 10.1097/dad.0000000000002712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Advaita S Chaudhari
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Health, Lebanon, NH
| | - Jason R McFadden
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Health, Lebanon, NH
| | - Jessica Bentz
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Health, Lebanon, NH
| | - Rebecca H Evans
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Dartmouth Health, Lebanon, NH; and
| | | | - Aravindhan Sriharan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Health, Lebanon, NH
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Morrel B, Ten Kate-Booij MJ, van Dijk C, Bramer WM, Burger CW, Pasmans SGMA, van der Avoort IAM. Outcome Measures in Adult Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: A Systematic Review. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2024; 28:282-294. [PMID: 38709568 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Core outcome domains (CODs) for treatment of adult vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) have recently been established through a Delphi study. A number of measuring tools are available for evaluating VLS. The aim of this study is to identify available standardized measurement tools for the major CODs for VLS that have recently been defined, namely, physical findings and quality of life (QoL) specific to VLS. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic search through September 8, 2023, for measuring tools applicable to VLS regarding physical findings and QoL including sexual function or sexual well-being and self-image was performed. RESULTS Thirty-five studies were included in the systematic review describing 26 tools covering the following 6 outcome domains: QoL-general health, QoL-lichen sclerosus specific, symptoms, clinical signs, emotional impact, and sexual functioning. CONCLUSIONS In current research, there is no uniformity in use of measurement tools for evaluating VLS. The established CODs to evaluate treatment of VLS are applicable for evaluating disease course as well. A comprehensive study to reach consensus regarding measurement of physical findings, QoL-lichen sclerosus specific, sexuality, and self-image taking the predetermined CODs and other factors such as age into account is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marianne J Ten Kate-Booij
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Charlotte van Dijk
- Department of Dermatology, Sophia Children's Hospital-Center of Pediatric Dermatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wichor M Bramer
- Medical Library, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Curt W Burger
- Research and Development Office (RDO), Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Suzanne G M A Pasmans
- Department of Dermatology, Sophia Children's Hospital-Center of Pediatric Dermatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Wijaya M, Fischer G, Saunderson RB. The efficacy and safety of deucravacitinib compared to methotrexate, in patients with vulvar lichen planus who have failed topical therapy with potent corticosteroids: a study protocol for a single-centre double-blinded randomised controlled trial. Trials 2024; 25:181. [PMID: 38475894 PMCID: PMC10929110 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08022-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvar lichen planus (VLP) is a chronic vulvar dermatosis that is difficult to treat and can severely impair quality of life in the absence of adequate treatment. There is a lack of high-quality evidence to direct therapy for VLP. This randomised controlled trial will be the first double-blinded study comparing systemic treatments in VLP and aims to investigate the safety and efficacy of deucravacitinib compared to methotrexate, in patients with VLP who have failed treatment with potent topical corticosteroids. METHODS A total of 116 women aged ≥ 18 years with moderate to severe VLP (Genital Erosive Lichen Planus (GELP) score ≥ 5) will be recruited. All participants will initially be treated with Diprosone® OV daily, and their outcome will be assessed using the GELP score. At 8 weeks' follow-up, responders (GELP < 5) will be continued on Diprosone® OV. Non-responders (GELP ≥ 5) will be randomised 1:1 in a blinded fashion to receive (i) methotrexate 10 mg weekly + placebo tablet twice daily + folic acid 5 mg weekly or (ii) deucravacitinib 6 mg twice daily + placebo tablet weekly + folic acid 5 mg weekly. The primary endpoint is the difference in the mean change of GELP scores from baseline to week 32 between deucravacitinib and methotrexate groups. DISCUSSION High-quality evidence guiding the management of women with VLP is lacking. Once completed, this will be the first double-blinded RCT to compare systemic treatments in VLP. The results of this study will provide valuable, high-quality data to guide second-line therapy options for VLP that is recalcitrant to potent topical corticosteroids. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12623000682640. Registered on 26 June 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Wijaya
- Department of Dermatology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Reserve Rd, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia.
- The University of Sydney, Northern Clinical School, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Gayle Fischer
- Department of Dermatology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Reserve Rd, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Northern Clinical School, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca Bronwyn Saunderson
- Department of Dermatology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Reserve Rd, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Northern Clinical School, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
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Abder-Rahman H, Habash I, Hussein A, Al-Shaeb A, Elqasass A, Qaqish LN. Genital lichen sclerosus misdiagnosis: Forensic insights. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2024:10.1007/s12024-024-00779-7. [PMID: 38294631 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-024-00779-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
In this case study, we present an instance of genital lichen sclerosus et atrophicus that was initially misdiagnosed as child sexual abuse. A 6-year-old female presented to the emergency department with complaints of vaginal bleeding accompanied by pruritus. The initial suspicion of child abuse was prompted by the presence of blood. However, a thorough physical examination conducted by the forensic department ruled out any traumatic injuries and instead suggested an underlying pathology, ultimately diagnosed as lichen sclerosus et atrophicus. This case report underscores the vital role of forensics in excluding abuse as a cause in similar presentations, guiding the case towards a more accurate diagnosis. Additionally, it emphasizes the significance of possessing a comprehensive understanding of pathologies that can mimic abusive injuries, thereby preventing the potential consequences of an incorrect abuse diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Abder-Rahman
- Pathology and Microbiology and Forensic Medicine Department, School of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ibrahim Habash
- Pathology and Microbiology and Forensic Medicine Department, Al-Zarqa Governmental Hospital, Ministry of Health and The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Ahmad Hussein
- Department of Dermatology, Al-Zarqa Governmental Hospital, Ministry of Health, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Asma Al-Shaeb
- Pathology and Microbiology and Forensic Medicine Department, School of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
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Vladulescu D, Scurtu LG, Simionescu AA, Scurtu F, Popescu MI, Simionescu O. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) in Dermatology: Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Action. Biomedicines 2023; 12:7. [PMID: 38275368 PMCID: PMC10813350 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has gained attention in the scientific field due to its potential regenerative effects and great benefit-risk ratio. This review extensively explores the most studied mechanisms of this therapy according to the etiopathogenesis of skin diseases: cellular proliferation, matrix formation, regulation of inflammation, angiogenesis, collagen synthesis, and the remodeling of new tissue. Moreover, it draws on newly reported and lesser-known effects of PRP: its anti-apoptotic effects, immunological suppression, decrease in melanin synthesis, anti-microbial effects, overexpression of miR-155, antioxidant effects, and their involved pathways. This work aims to provide a complete update for understanding PRP's benefits and clinical relevance in wound healing, alopecia, pigmentary disorders, scars, rejuvenation, lichen sclerosus, and other inflammatory dermatoses, based on the current evidence. Furthermore, recent reports with novel indications for PRP therapy are highlighted, and new potential pathways correlated with the pathogenesis of skin diseases are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denisa Vladulescu
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology I, Colentina Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Lucian G. Scurtu
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology I, Colentina Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Angela Simionescu
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 011132 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Francesca Scurtu
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 011132 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Marco I. Popescu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Titu Maiorescu” University, 040441 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Olga Simionescu
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology I, Colentina Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
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Potapov A, Loginova M, Moiseev A, Radenska-Lopovok S, Kuznetsov S, Kuznetsova I, Mustafina N, Safonov I, Gladkova N, Sirotkina M. Cross-Polarization Optical Coherence Tomography for Clinical Evaluation of Dermal Lesion Degrees in Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus. Sovrem Tekhnologii Med 2023; 15:53-60. [PMID: 37388751 PMCID: PMC10306962 DOI: 10.17691/stm2023.15.1.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to identify different degrees of dermal lesions in vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) using cross-polarization optical coherence tomography (CP OCT) based on attenuation coefficient to detect disease early manifestations and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment. Materials and Methods The study included 10 patients without pathology and 39 patients with VLS diagnosed histologically. CP OCT was performed in vivo on the inner surface of the labia minora, in the main lesion area. From each scanning point, a 3.4×3.4×1.25-mm3 3D data array was obtained in 26 s. CP OCT examination results were compared with histological examination of specimens stained with Van Gieson's picrofuchsin.Quantitative analysis of OCT images was performed by measuring the attenuation coefficient in co-polarization and cross-polarization. For visual analysis, color-coded charts were developed based on OCT attenuation coefficients. Results According to histological examination, all patients with VLS were divided into 4 groups as per dermal lesion degree: initial (8 patients); mild (7 patients); moderate (9 patients); severe (15 patients). Typical features of different degrees were interfibrillary edema up to 250 μm deep for initial degree, thickened collagen bundles without edema up to 350 μm deep for mild degree, dermis homogenization up to 700 μm deep for moderate degree, dermis homogenization and total edema up to 1200 μm deep for severe degree.Pathological processes in dermis during VLS like interfibrillary edema and collagen bundles homogenization were visualized using CP OCT method based on values of attenuation coefficient in co- and cross-polarization channels. However, CP OCT method appeared to be less sensitive to changes of collagen bundles thickness not allowing to distinguish thickened collagen bundles from normal ones with enough statistical significance. The CP OCT method was able to differentiate all degrees of dermal lesions among themselves. OCT attenuation coefficients differed from normal condition with statistical significance for all degrees of lesions, except for mild. Conclusion For the first time, quantitative parameters for each degrees of dermis lesion in VLS, including initial degree, were determined by CP OCT method allowing to detect the disease at an early stage and to monitor the applied clinical treatment effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- A.L. Potapov
- PhD Student, Laboratory Assistant, Scientific Laboratory of Optical Coherence Tomography, Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies; Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
| | - M.M. Loginova
- Junior Researcher, Scientific Laboratory of Optical Coherence Tomography, Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies; Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia; PhD Student, Institute of Biology and Biomedicine; National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod, 23 Prospekt Gagarina, Nizhny Novgorod, 603950, Russia
| | - A.A. Moiseev
- Senior Researcher, Laboratory of Highly Sensitive Optical Measurements; Federal Research Center Institute of Applied Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 46 Ulyanova St., Nizhny Novgorod, 603950, Russia
| | - S.G. Radenska-Lopovok
- Professor, Institute of Clinical Morphology and Digital Pathology; I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 8/2 Malaya Trubetskaya St., Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - S.S. Kuznetsov
- Professor, Head of Pathological Department; Nizhny Novgorod Regional Clinical Hospital named after N.A. Semashko, 190 Rodionova St., Nizhny Novgorod, 603126, Russia
| | - I.A. Kuznetsova
- Head of the 2 Gynecological Department; Nizhny Novgorod Regional Clinical Hospital named after N.A. Semashko, 190 Rodionova St., Nizhny Novgorod, 603126, Russia Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
| | - N.N. Mustafina
- Obstetrician-Gynecologist; Nizhny Novgorod Regional Clinical Hospital named after N.A. Semashko, 190 Rodionova St., Nizhny Novgorod, 603126, Russia
| | - I.K. Safonov
- Obstetrician-Gynecologist; Nizhny Novgorod Regional Clinical Hospital named after N.A. Semashko, 190 Rodionova St., Nizhny Novgorod, 603126, Russia
| | - N.D. Gladkova
- Professor, Head of the Scientific Laboratory of Optical Coherence Tomography, Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies; Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
| | - M.A. Sirotkina
- Director of the Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies; Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
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Smith AB, Muhammad NI, Cigna ST, Krapf JM. A systematic review of sexual health consequences among women with lichen sclerosus. Sex Med Rev 2023. [DOI: 10.1093/sxmrev/qeac002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition predominantly affecting the vulva. Studies have shown high rates of sexual dysfunction in patients with LS; however, the sexual effects of the condition are poorly acknowledged.
Objectives
We sought to identify sexual health consequences among women with vulvar LS through systematic review of available literature.
Methods
A systematic review of the literature was conducted to find reports on sexual health consequences among women with LS. PubMed, MEDLINE, and Scopus were queried. Included articles were observational studies evaluating women with LS and their sexual health and randomized controlled trials or comparative studies utilizing a validated sexual health measure before intervention among the same population. Articles must have been written in English and published from January 1991 to April 2022.
Results
The search produced 683 references, including 32 articles that met criteria for full-text review and 20 reported studies that met inclusion criteria. Two studies investigated the impact of LS on interpersonal relationships, 6 studies evaluated sexual symptoms, 16%-60% reported sexual dysfunction, and 22%-56.7% reported dyspareunia. Also described were decreased sexual frequency and satisfaction, negative impact on sexual relationships, and feelings of inadequacy. Eight publications evaluated the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI); all described studies that demonstrated a central tendency less than 26.55. Four publications evaluated the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS); all demonstrated average scores greater than 12. Two publications evaluated the Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS), both found decreased scores compared to controls. Four publications evaluated the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI); impact on quality of life was small to very large, with sexual difficulties affecting most study patients. One publication evaluated the Vulvar Quality of Life Index (VQLI); sexuality was the second highest-scoring subgroup.
Conclusions
Sexual health consequences of LS include sexual pain, dysfunction, and distress; negative genital self-image; and negative impact on sexual relationships. Women with LS experience a negative impact on quality of life, particularly related to sexual functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa B Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences , Washington. DC, United States
| | | | - Sarah T Cigna
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences , Washington. DC, United States
| | - Jill M Krapf
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences , Washington. DC, United States
- Center for Vulvovaginal Disorders , Washington, DC, United States
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Arnold S, Fernando S, Rees S. Living with vulval lichen sclerosus: a qualitative interview study. Br J Dermatol 2022; 187:909-918. [PMID: 35831927 PMCID: PMC10087446 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.21777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulval lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a chronic inflammatory condition predominantly affecting the anogenital skin. Symptoms can be distressing and affect quality of life and everyday activities. Very little research has been undertaken to explore the experience of living with VLS from the perspective of people with the condition. OBJECTIVES To understand individuals' experiences of VLS and its impact on their lives. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS Semi-structured remote (telephone or video) interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 20 women living in the UK with VLS recruited via online support groups and social media. Data collection and analysis was informed by social constructionist grounded theory, using a constant comparison method. RESULTS We developed three themes to interpret the experience of living with VLS: missed opportunities (participants experienced delayed diagnosis, lack of information and disempowering encounters with healthcare professionals); learning to live with a long-term condition (the amount of work involved in learning how to self-manage the disease and the impact on everyday life); a secret life (experiences of the condition were often shrouded in secrecy, and there was stigma associated with a vulval skin condition resulting in them feeling isolated and lonely). CONCLUSIONS Patients attending healthcare appointments with vulval complaints should be examined and LS should be considered as a diagnosis. Healthcare professionals' awareness and knowledge of VLS needs to be improved and they should avoid language which is blaming or minimizing of patients' experiences. VLS is a chronic condition and patients need to be supported in self-management. Support groups may be a source of support and information but can also be challenging when hearing others' difficult experiences. Wider public health educational activities are needed to change societal attitudes towards female genitals and tackle the stigma around vulval conditions. What is already known about this topic? Vulval lichen sclerosus (VLS) can have a profound impact on quality of life and self-identity but is relatively underexplored from the perspective of those living with the condition. What does this study add? In-depth findings about the experiences of living with VLS including ongoing issues with timely diagnosis, learning to live with a long-term condition and the secrecy and stigma about the condition. The needs of women with symptoms of and diagnoses of VLS are not being met sufficiently by the healthcare system. What are the clinical implications of this work? Healthcare professionals should consider addressing knowledge gaps in vulval conditions including VLS to prevent delayed diagnosis and avoid the use of certain terminology which can minimize patients' experiences. Patients with vulval complaints should be examined and LS should be considered as a diagnosis. Regular follow-up would reflect its chronic nature and could provide patients with reassurance and confidence in self-management. Wider public health activities are needed to change societal attitudes and tackle stigma around vulval conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Arnold
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Sophie Rees
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, Coventry, UK.,Bristol Trials Centre, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Wijaya M, Lee G, Fischer G. Why do some patients with vulval lichen sclerosus on long-term topical corticosteroid treatment experience ongoing poor quality of life? Australas J Dermatol 2022; 63:463-472. [PMID: 36208206 PMCID: PMC9828553 DOI: 10.1111/ajd.13926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify reasons for ongoing poor quality of life (pQOL) in a subset of long-term topical corticosteroid-treated vulval lichen sclerosus (VLS) patients. METHODS A prospective cross-sectional study of patients attending a dermato-gynaecology practice in Sydney, Australia, comparing VLS patients with good quality of life (gQOL) and pQOL, in pre-treatment and long-term treatment groups, using the Vulval Quality of Life Index (VQLI). Demographics, VQLI scores and treatment characteristics were compared between gQOL and pQOL patients. RESULTS A total of 255 biopsy-proven VLS patients, 67 in pre-treatment and 188 in long-term treated groups were considered. There were 33 (49.3%) pQOL patients in pre-treatment and 13 (6.9%) in treatment groups (p < 0.001). The highest-scoring domain in treated pQOL patients was sexuality (1.7 [interquartile range (IQR) 1.0-2.0]), followed by anxiety [1.3 (IQR 1.0-1.5]), symptoms (1.0 [IQR 0.5-1.5]) and activities of daily living (0.7 [IQR 0.3-1.0]). Compared to treated gQOL, treated pQOL had significantly higher proportions of patients with partial treatment adherence (8 [61.5%] vs 42 [24.0%], p = 0.006), suboptimal disease control (7 [53.8%] vs 20 [11.4%], p < 0.001), scarring progression (3 [23.1%] vs 7 [4.0%], p = 0.024) and urinary incontinence (5 [38.5%] vs 27 [15.4%], p = 0.049). CONCLUSIONS Only a minority of long-term treated VLS patients reported ongoing pQOL. Of those who did, sexuality and anxiety domains were found to be the main sources of distress. Three major areas distinguishing gQOL from pQOL patients were (1) treatment adherence and disease control, (2) psychological factors and (3) urinary incontinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Wijaya
- Faculty of Medicine, Northern Clinical SchoolUniversity of SydneySt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia,Department of DermatologyRoyal North Shore HospitalSt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Geoffrey Lee
- Faculty of Medicine, Northern Clinical SchoolUniversity of SydneySt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia,Department of DermatologyRoyal North Shore HospitalSt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Gayle Fischer
- Faculty of Medicine, Northern Clinical SchoolUniversity of SydneySt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia,Department of DermatologyRoyal North Shore HospitalSt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia,North Shore Private HospitalSt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia
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Kolitz EM, Pineider J, Mauskar MM, Rutherford A. The impact of an encounter with a gynaecologic dermatologist on quality of life, health literacy and education satisfaction for patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus: A survey study. SKIN HEALTH AND DISEASE 2022; 2:e89. [PMID: 36092254 PMCID: PMC9435454 DOI: 10.1002/ski2.89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. M. Kolitz
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center University of Texas Southwestern Medical School Dallas Texas USA
| | - J. Pineider
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center University of Texas Southwestern Medical School Dallas Texas USA
| | - M. M. Mauskar
- Department of Dermatology and Obstetrics & Gynecology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
- Department of Dermatology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
| | - A. Rutherford
- Department of Dermatology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
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11
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Fischer G, Bradford J. Interactions between vulvovaginal disorders and urinary disorders: The case for an integrated view of the pelvis. Int J Womens Dermatol 2022; 7:600-605. [PMID: 35005179 PMCID: PMC8721064 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijwd.2021.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Lower urinary tract symptomatology is often difficult to categorize if history and investigation focus only on the urinary tract. Disease and dysfunction in organs more posteriorly can often cause or influence such bladder and urethral symptoms. Vulvovaginal skin diseases are an important but often missed influence on lower urinary tract symptomatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayle Fischer
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jennifer Bradford
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Blacktown Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Corresponding Author:
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