Is lichen simplex chronicus the same as lichen sclerosus?
Lichen sclerosus is most common in women after menopause. However, men and children can get it too. Women may have a subset of the condition called lichen simplex chronicus. This affects a woman’s vulva (the outside part of the vagina).
What is the cause of lichen simplex chronicus?
Lichen simplex chronicus is a chronic dermatitis caused by repeated skin scratching and/or rubbing.
How is lichen simplex chronicus diagnosed?
The diagnosis of lichen simplex chronicus is largely clinical. Investigations are performed to exclude other differential diagnosis: Skin biopsy. Patch testing — used to exclude contact allergic dermatitis as the underlying dermatosis.
How do you treat vulvar lichen simplex chronicus?
For example, a thick psoriasiform plaque of lichen simplex chronicus on a limb is commonly treated with a highly potent topical corticosteroid or intralesional corticosteroids, whereas vulvar lesions are more commonly treated with a mild topical corticosteroid or a topical calcineurin inhibitor.
What is the best treatment for lichen simplex chronicus?
Topical steroids are the current treatment of choice because they decrease inflammation and itch while concurrently softening the hyperkeratosis. Because lesions are by nature chronic, treatment most likely is lifelong. On larger and more active lesions, a midpotency steroid may be used to treat acute inflammation.
How do you treat Lichen simplex vagina?
Corticosteroid ointments or creams are commonly prescribed for lichen sclerosus. Initially, you’ll generally have to use cortisone creams or ointments on the affected skin twice a day. After several weeks, your doctor will likely recommend that you only use these medications twice a week to prevent a recurrence.
How long does it take for lichen simplex chronicus to go away?
One month after TULIP® treatment, most patients are completely healed with no symptoms of lichen simplex chronicus.
Is lichen simplex chronicus permanent?
Lichen simplex chronicus usually improves with treatment, but some cases may become persistent, especially when on the genitals.
How painful is a vulvar biopsy?
This will sting briefly but quickly makes the area go numb. This means that you should not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure. Once the area is numb, the nurse will take a very small biopsy using a special biopsy tool.
Can a gynecologist do a vulvar biopsy?
If there are patches of skin in the vulva that look abnormal, your gynecologist will want to perform a vulvar biopsy. This involves taking samples of tissue from the vulva to test for vulvar cancer.
How long does it take to get the results of a vulvar biopsy?
It should take 1-2 weeks to get your results. You may receive your results one of three ways: A phone call from your doctor or nurse.
What is early stage lichen sclerosus?
The lesions caused by lichen sclerosus usually begin as small, pinkish or whitish bumps. Over time, they become patchy, wrinkly and white, often resembling tissue paper. These patches tend to be itchy and painful. Because the affected skin is delicate, even light itching may cause bleeding.
What is the pathophysiology of lichen simplex of vulva?
The mechanism of lichen simplex of the vulva is explained by the persistent itch–scratch cycle. Pre-existing itch or pruritic conditions induce habitual scratching, which gives rise to histological acanthosis (thickening of the epidermis) and hyperkeratosis (thickening of the stratum corneum ).
What are lichenoid vulvar dermatoses (LS and LP)?
Lichenoid vulvar dermatoses, which include lichen sclerosus (LS), lichen planus (LP), and lichen simplex chronicus (LSC), are chronic inflammatory conditions that can manifest with a variety of symptoms, most commonly pruritus or pain.
What is lichen simplex chronicus (lyk)?
Lichen (LY-kin) simplex chronicus (kro-ni-kus) is a skin condition caused by long term irritation of the vulva. It may cause itching, burning, and/or thickened skin.
What is lichen simplex chronicus (squamous cell hyperplasia)?
Lichen simplex chronicus. It is also known as squamous cell hyperplasia. In the oral cavity, it may go by the name benign alveolar ridge keratosis.