Journal of International Reproductive Health/Family Planning ›› 2024, Vol. 43 ›› Issue (3): 260-264.doi: 10.12280/gjszjk.20240048

• Review • Previous Articles    

Clinical Research Progress of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus

CHENG Shi-yu, SHI Jie, LI Yan-li, GAO Han()   

  1. School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China (CHENG Shi-yu); Department of GynecologyⅡ, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430070, China (SHI Jie, LI Yan-li, GAO Han)
  • Received:2024-01-23 Published:2024-05-15 Online:2024-05-14
  • Contact: GAO Han, E-mail: gaohan720204@163.com

Abstract:

Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with female vulvar itching as the main clinical manifestation. It mainly affects the female anogenital area, such as the labia and the perianal region. VLS can affect women of all ages, but predominantly pre-pubertal girls and post-menopausal women present to hospital with persistent vulvar itching, burning pain or discomfort during intercourse. The exact pathogenesis of VLS is still unknown. Genetic, metabolic abnormalities, autoimmune and other factors may be involved. If the lesions are not treated effectively, they can eventually progress to irreversible anatomical changes in the vulva and malignant tumors, seriously endangering the physical and psychological health of the patient. According to the severity of VLS, the individualized treatment should be adopted, mainly including psychological counseling, physical intervention and surgical treatment.

Key words: Vulvar lichen sclerosus, Pruritus vulvae, Etiology, Diagnosis, Therapy