Lichen Sclerosus – Symptoms and Causes

ByJanis Updated

Overview

Lichen sclerosus is a skin condition that causes thin, discolored patches, mainly in the genital and anal areas.

Though it can affect anyone, women after menopause face a higher risk of developing this condition. The condition is neither contagious nor sexually transmitted.

The standard treatment involves applying medicated ointments that help restore normal skin color and prevent scarring. Even after symptoms improve, lichen sclerosus often recurs, making ongoing medical supervision important.

Signs and Symptoms

Lichen sclerosus may occur without any noticeable symptoms in mild cases. Symptoms usually appear in the genital and anal areas, but can also affect the back, shoulders, upper arms, and breasts.

Common symptoms include:

  • Light-colored patches of smooth skin
  • Areas of wrinkled, blotchy skin
  • Persistent itching
  • Pain or burning sensations
  • Skin that bruises easily
  • Delicate, thin skin
  • Changes to the urinary opening
  • Sores, blisters, or bleeding
  • Discomfort during sexual activity

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

Make an appointment with your healthcare provider if you notice any symptoms of lichen sclerosus. For those already diagnosed with this condition, regular check-ups every 6โ€“12 months are essential.

Follow-up visits allow your provider to monitor any skin changes and check for potential treatment side effects.

Causes

Doctors don’t know exactly what causes lichen sclerosus. Research suggests it likely results from several factors working together:

  • Immune system problems: Your body’s defense system may become overactive.
  • Genetics: Your family history may play a role.
  • Skin trauma: Previous damage or irritation to the skin might trigger it.

It’s important to understand that lichen sclerosus cannot be transmitted to others. You cannot catch it through physical contact, including sexual activity.

Risk Factors

Certain groups have a higher chance of developing lichen sclerosus:

  • Women after menopause
  • Children under 10 years old
  • Women who have autoimmune conditions like hypothyroidism
  • Men who experience urinary incontinence
  • Men with uncircumcised penises
  • People with family members who have the condition

Complications

Lichen sclerosus can lead to several uncomfortable and potentially serious complications. These issues vary between men, women, and children.

For women, painful sexual intercourse is a common problem. Scarring can develop and may cover the clitoris, affecting sexual function and sensation.

Women with vulvar lichen sclerosus face a higher risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Regular check-ups are important for early detection.

Men face a variety of complications. Scarring of the penis can cause:

  • Painful erections
  • Difficulty urinating (poor urine flow)
  • Inability to retract the foreskin

For children with lichen sclerosus, constipation is frequently reported as a complication. This happens because the pain and discomfort from the condition might make children reluctant to have bowel movements.

Regular follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring health and adjusting treatment, particularly for individuals at higher risk of cancer.


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Health Writer

Janis's areas of expertise include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. She is passionate about educating and empowering people to take control of their health and make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Janis believes that small, sustainable changes are the key to long-term success, and she works with her clients to develop personalized plans that fit their individual needs and lifestyles.