overview
Lichen sclerosus (LIE-kun skluh-ROW-sus) is a rare condition that causes blotchy white skin that looks thinner than normal. It usually affects the genital and anal regions.
Anyone can get lichen sclerosus, but postmenopausal women are at higher risk.
Your doctor may suggest using creams or ointments to help make your skin look more normal and reduce the tendency to scarring. The condition tends to recur, so long-term follow-up may be needed. In rare cases, lichen sclerosus improves without treatment. Lichen sclerosus Treatment in Hyderabad
symptoms
- Scleroatrophic lichen
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- People with mild sclerosis may not have any signs or symptoms.
The signs and symptoms usually affect the skin of the genital and anal areas, but can also affect the skin of the upper body, upper arms, and breasts. They can include:
- Redness
- Itching (itching), which can be severe
- Discomfort or pain
- Smooth white patches on your skin
- Spotted and wrinkled spots
- Tearing or bleeding
- In severe cases, bleeding, blisters, or ulcerated sores
- Painful sex
The reasons
The cause of lichen sclerosus is unknown. An overactive immune system or hormonal imbalance can play a role. Previous skin lesions in a specific area on your skin can increase the likelihood of lichen sclerosus there. Lichen sclerosus Treatment in Hyderabad
Lichen sclerosus is not contagious and cannot be spread during sex.
Lichen sclerosus often occurs in postmenopausal women, but also in men and children. In women, lichen sclerosus usually affects the vulva. In boys and men, uncircumcised men are most at risk because the disease usually affects the foreskin.
In children, signs and symptoms may improve during puberty, but they must continue to be monitored for disease activity.
Risk factors
The risk of lichen sclerosus is higher in postmenopausal women, although it can occur in men and children. Uncircumcised men are at higher risk because the disease often affects the foreskin.
Complications
Complications of lichen sclerosus include painful intercourse, urinary retention, constipation, and the inability to retract the foreskin. People with lichen sclerosus are also at an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the affected area.