Fractional CO2 laser therapy of lichen sclerosus in males: a new therapeutic opportunity?

Abstract

Introduction Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic relapsing disease with a predilection for the anogenital areas of patients of both sexes and at all ages. In males, LS is usually a late diagnosis, increasing the odds for serious complications up to the worse clinical scenario. LS is known to affect the quality of patients’ social and interpersonal life. Here, we designed a study to monitor the possible beneficial effects of fractional photo-thermolysis with CO2 laser for treating penile LS during a non-active phase of the disease. Methods Ten patients were enrolled in this study. They all underwent three ablation laser sessions, followed by a follow-up visit 6 months after the last treatment. In four out of five visits conducted, questionnaires were filled in by both clinician and patients to evaluate outcomes on quality of life (DLQI test), symptoms of LS (MenLas Observer Scale and MenLas Patient Scale), and sexual function (MSHQ questionnaire). Results Our study shows that treatment with fractioned laser CO2 therapy, by promoting fast clinical recovery, has a positive impact on patients’ sexual function and ultimately their social life. Conclusions Our study shows that treatment with fractioned laser CO2 therapy, by promoting fast clinical recovery, has a positive impact on patients’ sexual function and ultimately their social life.