Lichen Sclerosus in Perspective.

Lichen sclerosus (LS) was first described in women by a researcher in 1887.1 It was recognized in men by another investigator in 1928.2 Lichen sclerosus is a chronic, inflammatory lymphocytic dermatosis that occurs in anywhere from 1:30 to 1:1,000 adults.3,4 There is a slight predominance of women, with a bimodal age distribution in pre-pubertal individuals and again in life's sixth-seventh decades. Studies have established that the majority with pre-pubertal onset continue to have adulthood disease.5 Psychosocial implications of this disease, specifically self-image, anxiety, and sexual function, can be debilitating for patients.6-9 As no cure has been described for lichen sclerosus. Treatment is aimed at symptomatic relief and preventing additional effacement. Unfortunately, the scarring that occurs is usually permanent.10,11 As it is unclear whether treatment alters the theoretic risk of malignant degeneration, estimated at 4%-5%,12,13 frequent clinical examinations are indicated.14-17.