What are the Symptoms of Lichen Sclerosis?

The most common findings in patients with lichen sclerosis are pain, burning, stinging sensation, itching, inability to wear tight pants, dyspareunia, lack of sexual pleasure, orgasm problems and dysuria in the genital area. When these patients do not receive adequate treatment, the vulvar structure progressively deteriorates; the labia minora and labia minora fade and disappear, the clitoris is buried and the vaginal entrance (introitus) narrows.

In rare cases, lichen sclerosis can develop into vulvar squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. Therefore, biopsy should be taken before treatment and the process should be followed up with serial biopsies.

What is the Treatment for Lichen Sclerosis?

LS treatment involves a chronic process. Although there is no definitive treatment, it is aimed to minimize symptoms with regular follow-up and treatments. Ultra-potent steroids such as clobetasol propionate given locally suppress inflammation in the tissue on the one hand, but on the other hand, they further increase atrophy in the skin with prolonged use. Use for longer than 2 months should therefore be avoided. It is generally recommended that after 6-8 weeks of daily use, the dose should be reduced to 2-3 per week.

Treatment of Lichen Sclerosus with Laser

Fractional lasers can be used in symptomatic treatment. Laser lichen sclerosis treatment can be performed under light sedation anesthesia or local anesthesia. PRP treatment is usually added simultaneously. In addition, if there are functional complaints due to buried clitoris, perineal scarring or vaginal introitus stenosis, simple surgical procedures can be performed in the same session. Symptomatic improvement will occur within 2-3 weeks. Repeated sessions are required to follow up the disease.

Laser lichen sclerosis treatment prices are determined according to the severity of the disease, additional treatments to be applied and the number of sessions. Pre-examination is recommended in cases where a surgical procedure is also planned.