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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Lichen Sclerosus?

What is Lichen Sclerosus? My 87 yr old Mother had a white spot between her anus and vaginal area and was examined by her gynecologist. He took a sample to have it diagnosed for cancer or non-cancerous to be absolutely sure it wasn t cancerous. Please advise what it is in a way I can relay to her exactly what causes it and for her to have peace of mind. Thank you.
Tue, 19 Jan 2016
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Pathologist and Microbiologist,  's  Response
Hello and welcome to HCM,
Lichen sclerosus is a skin condition characterized by white itchy skin on any part of body but especially on vulva in females.
The white colored lesion mimics cancer of skin so it needs to be differentiated from skin cancer.
Lichen sclerosus is seen in post-menopausal women so lack of estrogens is thought to be the cause of lichen sclerosus.
The patch of lichen sclerosus can lead to intense itching, painful and difficult sexual activity.
Treatment of lichen sclerosus is topical application of corticosteroids.
The patch of lichen sclerosus needs to be followed since there are chances of developing skin cancer at the site of patch although the chances are low.

Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja Puri
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What Causes Lichen Sclerosus?

Hello and welcome to HCM, Lichen sclerosus is a skin condition characterized by white itchy skin on any part of body but especially on vulva in females. The white colored lesion mimics cancer of skin so it needs to be differentiated from skin cancer. Lichen sclerosus is seen in post-menopausal women so lack of estrogens is thought to be the cause of lichen sclerosus. The patch of lichen sclerosus can lead to intense itching, painful and difficult sexual activity. Treatment of lichen sclerosus is topical application of corticosteroids. The patch of lichen sclerosus needs to be followed since there are chances of developing skin cancer at the site of patch although the chances are low. Thanks and take care Dr Shailja Puri