Lichen sclerosus

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Overview

Lichen sclerosus (LIE-kun skluh-ROW-sus) is a condition that causes patchy, discolored, thin skin. It usually affects the genital and anal areas.

Anyone can get lichen sclerosus but postmenopausal women are at higher risk. It isn't contagious and can't be spread through sexual contact.

Treatment is usually a medicated ointment. This treatment helps return the skin to its usual color and reduces the risk of scarring. Even if your symptoms clear up, they tend to come back. So you'll likely need long-term follow-up care.

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Diagnosis & treatment
Sept. 29, 2022
Print
  1. AskMayoExpert. Lichen sclerosus (balanitis xerotica obliterans). Mayo Clinic; 2021.
  2. Lichen sclerosus. Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/psoriasis-and-scaling-diseases/lichen-sclerosus. Accessed July 25, 2022.
  3. Goldsmith LA, et al., eds. Morphea and lichen sclerosus. In: Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine. 9th ed. McGraw-Hill Education; 2019. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed July 25, 2022.
  4. Lewis FM, et al. British Association of Dermatologists guidelines for the management of lichen sclerosus, 2018. British Journal of Dermatology; doi:10.1111/bjd.16241.
  5. Kelly AP, et al., eds. Genital lesions in women. In: Taylor and Kelly's Dermatology for Skin of Color. 2nd ed. McGraw Hill; 2016. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed July 25, 2022.
  6. Cooper SM, et al. Vulvar lichen sclerosus. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed March 4, 2021.
  7. Sominidi Damodaran S (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. Aug. 12, 2022.

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Lichen sclerosus