Have you Heard of… LicHen scLerosus?

A reader has recently written to me telling her story of suffering for years with vulval itching and soreness, which was treated by various doctors as either thrush or eczema. A specialist has now diagnosed her with lichen sclerosus, which she had never heard of – and she wanted to raise awareness in other women. Though it can occur in any area of the body, it most commonly affects the skin in the genital area and around the anus. It can occur at any age, including childhood, and though it can affect men, it’s more common in women. The cause isn’t known, but it is often linked with other diseases where the body’s own immune system attacks normal tissues, such as thyroid disease.

Affected skin becomes inflamed, itchy and sore, and without treatment can become scarred and whitened. The scarring can makes the skin prone to cracks, which can be very painful, especially during intercourse, and tightening of the skin around the anus can make if uncomfortable to pass a motion.

The diagnosis can often be made just by the characteristic shiny white appearance of the skin, but if there is any doubt, a biopsy can be taken. Unfortunately, many GPs aren’t familiar with the condition, and correct diagnosis may take years. There is no cure, but treatment with a very strong steroid can stop the inflammation and itching. Keeping the skin well hydrated with a moisturising cream is helpful.