Lichen Sclerosus in a Post-Menopausal Woman: A Case Report

Abstract

Lichen sclerosus (LS) refers to a benign, chronic, progressive dermatologic condition characterized by marked inflammation, epithelial thinning, and distinctive dermal changes. The previous designation was LS et atrophicus. The “et atrophicus” was dropped because areas of thickening and hyperplasia often occur. LS usually occurs in the anogenital region (85 to 98 percent of cases), but can develop on any skin surface. Extragenital lesions are present in 15 to 20 percent of patients. In post-menopausal women, the disorder is most common when endogenous estrogen production is low. Sideri et al. showed no difference in sexual habits, smoking history, education, or dietary habits. Besides age and post-menopause state, no other risk factors for LS have yet been identified. The anogenital lesion can cause severe discomfort and manifest with erosion, porcelain-white plaques, papules and wide degrees of sclerosis. Potent topical corticosteroids associated with skin care are thought to be the most successful therapy.