Accepted Answer

Dear adam.lin, Hello.Lichen Sclerosusis a chronic condition seen on the genital skin.It presents as white ,atrophic patches on the vulva in females and penis in the males.The incidence is more in females,especially those over 50 years of age.The cause is thought to be secondary to Thyroid problems,AutoImmune disease like Psoriasis,chronic infectionsof bacterial or viral origin .Strong steroid lotions are used to help with the symptoms of severe itching and fissuring of the skin.Initially the steroid is used regularly till symptoms settle down and then the frequency is gradually reduced to a maintainence dose of applications once or twice weekly.It may take a few weeks to months for the appearance to return to normal.The skin may thin out due to repeated steroid applications and appointmennts and dose suggested should be striclty followed.Wash gently with water and if needed nonsoapcleaners may be used.Apply emmolients and moisturisers to reduce dryness and itching.Avoid scratching and rubbing.The use of Isoretinoids locally and systemic,Calcipotriol cream,immunomodulating creams such as Tacrolimus or Picremolimus may help.Screening for HPV and skin biopsy may give a clearer picture regarding the disease.

Expert:	Vakul Aren
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	10/10/2009

Doctor

MBBS,DTM&H( Univ of Liverpool),30yrs experience in practice