What are the Symptoms of Lichen Sclerosus?

What is Lichen Sclerosus?

Lichen sclerosus is a rare condition in which the skin becomes patchy, white, and thinner than normal. The condition may affect the skin of any part of the body but, it usually affects the skin of vulva, foreskin of the penis, or skin around the anus.

The condition can affect anyone but, postmenopausal women are at a much higher risk. It timely treatment is not provided to the condition, it may worsen the situation. At times, treatment may not be required as lichen sclerosus gets cured on its own.

What are the Symptoms of Lichen Sclerosus?

The condition can affect skin of any part of the body and sometimes no symptoms may be seen. But, when the symptoms occur the following signs may be seen:

• Severe itching
• Discomfort especially when lichen sclerosus occurs on or around the genital or anal areas
• Smooth white spots which may later turn into blotchy, wrinkled patches
• Easy bruising or tearing
• In some cases, bleeding, blistering, or ulcerated lesions
• Pain during intercourse

What are the Causes behind Lichen Sclerosus?

Although the exact cause of lichen sclerosus is not known, the condition may be caused due to absence of sex hormones in the affected skin or to an overactive immune system. If there has been a damage caused to the skin, it can also increase the risk of lichen sclerosus on that part.

In most cases lichen sclerosus occurs on or around the skin of your genitals. But, it does not spread through sexual intercourse.

Image courtesy: Getty Images

Read more on Lichen Sclerosus Signs and Symptoms.