LICHEN PLANUS SCLEROSUS ATROPHICUS

Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus, otherwise known as Lichen Sclerosus/Planus (LS/A), is an abnormal skin condition that creates a blotch white mark at the skin, genital, and anal section of the body. It commonly occurs in the vulvar and perianal areas.

Moreover, LSA can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or behaviors, but it is most common in women over 50 and in the postmenopausal stage. 

SYMPTOMS

In the early stages of Lichen planus sclerosus atrophicus, patients will show no signs or symptoms, but as the illness advances, tiny white spots may appear on the patient’s afflicted skin. Additional symptoms may also appear, such as:

  • White blotches and wrinkles
  • Redness
  • Blisters
  • Tearing and bruising of the skin

Furthermore, patients may observe and experience the following symptoms if the illness affects the patient’s genital and anal sections:

  • Unbearable itchiness on the affected area
  • Swelling and bleeding in the affected area
  • Painful excretion of solid waste
  • Discomfort when urinating
  • Soreness

DIAGNOSIS

If any of the signs and symptoms appear, consult your doctor right away for a medical examination. After that, the doctor will ask about your symptoms as well as your health information.

Additional testing, such as a skin biopsy, may be performed for patients with LSA to confirm that they do not have any other health issues.

TREATMENT

Treatment for LSA varies, according to the severity of the condition. Dermatologists, who specialize in skin treatment, and obstetricians and gynecologists, who specialize in reproductive organs, are among the specialists available to patients.

Furthermore, treatment procedures for lichen plants sclerosus atrophicus may include:

Steroid ointments. These are the most common treatment options for lichen sclerosus. Frequently, an ultrapotent topical steroid is prescribed. In moderate disease or when symptoms are under control, a strong topical steroid may be utilized.

Steroid shots and injections. If the steroid ointment fails to work on the affected area, this therapy is frequently used.

Low doses of antidepressants. This treatment is utilized to relieve discomfort and inflammation in the affected genital and anal areas of the body.

Medications. Acitretin (except in pregnant women due to the risk of serious birth abnormalities) or tacrolimus are examples of medications prescribed for this condition.

Phototherapy. This treatment involves exposing the affected area of skin to ultraviolet radiation (UV light) to reduce inflammation and keep the disease from getting worse.

Related Articles

TETRALOGY OF FALLOT

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart defect that affects the [...]

TRICHINOSIS

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trichinosis, also known as trichinellosis, is a parasitic infection caused by [...]

TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological condition characterized by severe facial pain. [...]