Unusual presentation of lichen sclerosuis in an adolescent

Abstract

Background: The presentation of lichen sclerosus has been described in detail in the adult literature. Typically present with symptoms of itching and soreness in the vulvar area at which time a vulvar evaluation reveals a specific appearance. The presentation is believed to be similar in prepubertal children and adolescents. In this case report we encountered an unusual initial presentation of this disease.Methods: Case presentation.Results: An 18-year-old female presented for the first time to her gynecologist with complaint of difficulty with complete emptying of bladder and dribbling. She had noted the onset of these symptoms two months prior to presentation. She denied any long-term history of vulvar itching or irritation. Her menses were normal with no complaints of dysmenorrhea. Onset of menarche and pubertal development were also normal. She denied any pre-pubertal history of labial adhesions or lichen sclerosis. The patient was not sexually active. She was diagnosed with labial adhesions and her first course of treatment included topical estrogen therapy for 8 weeks. Her second course of therapy included topical testosterone for 6 weeks without any improvement or side effects. On evaluation at our institution the posterior aspect of the labia minora could not be seen and the area of the vaginal introitus was completely obstructed (see picture). The clitoral hood could not be retracted and the surrounding vulva appeared atrophic and white. The degree of obstruction was such that the urethra could not be seen. In the operating room the labia minora were manually separated. The patient applied clobetasol .05% ointment for the next two weeks to the vulva and then switched to a less potent steroid. Follow-up evaluation 2 and 4 weeks after the procedure did not show any adhesions. Punch biopsy was consistent with diagnosis of lichen sclerosis.Conclusion: The presentation of lichen sclerosis may be variable in adolescents; thus, a high index of suspicion must be maintained to make this diagnosis.