Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus in Women of Reproductive Age

Authors

Elysha Kolitz
Laura Gammon
Melissa Mauskar

Language

English

Publication Date

2-22-2021

Journal

Baylor University Medical Center Proceedings

DOI

10.1080/08998280.2021.1885093

PMID

33953458

PMCID

PMC8059896

PubMedCentral® Posted Date

2-21-2021

PubMedCentral® Full Text Version

Post-Print

Abstract

Vulvar lichen sclerosus (vLS) is an inflammatory skin condition that predominantly affects the vulvar and perianal regions. Approximately 50% of cases present prior to menopause; however, there is a paucity of data on vLS in women of reproductive age as well as during their pregnancies. A retrospective review was performed at two tertiary referral centers to better describe cases of vLS in women of reproductive age. Thirty-three patients with a mean age of 40 years met inclusion criteria. In this group, vulvar pruritus was the most common presenting symptom (52%); 61% had biopsy-proven vLS, 42% had at least one autoimmune condition, 21% had comorbid depression or anxiety, 33% were given an incorrect diagnosis prior to vLS, and 42% had documented nonadherence to topical steroids. Among the eight patients who became pregnant, four had cesarean deliveries and 63% were symptomatic during pregnancy. When treating a woman who presents with vulvar pruritus or skin changes, vLS should be considered.

Keywords

Genital, lichen sclerosus, pregnancy, reproductive age, vulvar lichen sclerosuslichen sclerosus

Published Open-Access

yes

Recommended Citation

Elysha Kolitz, Laura Gammon, and Melissa Mauskar, "Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus in Women of Reproductive Age" (2021). Faculty and Staff Publications. 1512.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/baylor_docs/1512