Non-neoplastic epithelial disorders of the vulva – lichen sclerosus

Czech version

Authors: M. Pešek; J. Bouda
Authors‘ workplace: Gynekologicko-porodnická klinika LF UK a FN, Plzeň, přednosta doc. MUDr. Z. Novotný, CSc.
Published in: Ceska Gynekol 2014; 79(1): 57-63

Overview

Lichen sclerosus (LS) belongs to frequent non-neoplastic epithelial disorders of the vulva. LS is a disease of unknown ethiology, affecting mainly postmenopausal women. LS has a typical macroscopic pattern, and it is characterized with an intensive pruritus and dyspareunia. Patients with LS have a risk of scarring of external genitalia and risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva (4–5%). Treatment of LS is usually long-term, repeated, and it is based on local potent corticosteroids. Frequent reccurences require repeated therapy. A close follow-up in a 6-months intervals and biopsy of all atypical lesions is required. Surgical treatment is rarely indicated in the management of LS. Follow-up at the specialized center is recommended.

Keywords:
lichen sclerosus – vulvar cancer – corticosteroids

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