How do you diagnose lichen sclerosus?

Your doctor may diagnose lichen sclerosus based on: A physical examination. Removal of a small piece of affected tissue (biopsy) for examination under a microscope.

What causes lichen sclerosus et Atrophicus?

The cause of lichen sclerosus is unknown. An overactive immune system or an imbalance of hormones may play a role. Previous skin damage at a particular site on your skin may increase the likelihood of lichen sclerosus at that location. Lichen sclerosus isn’t contagious and cannot be spread through sexual intercourse.

Is lichen sclerosus et Atrophicus curable?

While there is no cure for lichen sclerosus, various treatments are available: Topical Steroids: Prescription topical steroid ointments that are applied to the affected skin can reduce inflammation and itching. These are usually the first treatment option for lichen sclerosus.

What autoimmune disease is lichen sclerosus?

The most common autoimmune diseases associated with lichen sclerosus are autoimmune thyroiditis, alopecia areata, vitiligo, and pernicious anemia. 4. In addition to an autoimmune factor, it appears that genetics has a pathogenetic role as well.

What does lichen sclerosus look like?

This can look like lumps, ulcers or crusted areas. In areas away from the genital skin, lichen sclerosus looks like small ivory-coloured slightly raised areas, which can join up to form white patches. After a while the surface of the spots can look like white wrinkled tissue paper.

Is lichen sclerosus life threatening?

Lichen sclerosus isn’t life-threatening, but it can cause extreme discomfort without treatment. People with lichen sclerosus have a higher risk of developing a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma.

What does lichen sclerosus et Atrophicus look like?

Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus (LSA) or, simply, lichen sclerosus, is a disorder characterized by an atrophic epidermis, altered collagen in the superficial dermis, and an overlying white or white-blue appearance to the skin.

Is lichen sclerosus the same as lichen sclerosus et Atrophicus?

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is also known as lichen sclerosus et atrophicus (LSA), balanitis xerotica obliterans in males, Csillag’s disease, lichen albus, hypoplastic dystrophy, white spot disease, and kraurosis vulvae. There is a bimodal age distribution in the incidence of LS.