Lichen sclerosus may present with symptoms such as itching, burning, tenderness, thinning of the skin or whitish appearance in the vulvar area. In some periods, complaints increase, and in other periods, they may decrease significantly. Due to this fluctuating course, it is important to follow up not only when there are complaints but also at regular intervals.
Tracking plan varies from person to person. The prevalence of the disease, the severity of the symptoms, previous treatments used, whether there are structural changes in the skin, and the person’s ability to perform self-monitoring may affect the frequency of control.
Why Does Lichen Sclerosus Require Long-Term Follow-Up?
Lichen sclerosus is a condition generally considered chronic. Itching, burning and skin sensitivity can be controlled with treatment; However, there is a possibility that the disease may flare up again over time.
The aim of regular follow-up is not only to reduce complaints. Changes in the vulvar skin such as thinning, cracking, adhesion, narrowing at the entrance, or areas that do not heal despite treatment are also evaluated. If there is a wound that does not heal for a long time, a thickening or a differentiated lesion, it should be examined separately.
How to Plan a Check-Up After Initial Diagnosis?
After the initial diagnosis, the control interval is usually closer. The reason for this is to see the response to treatment, evaluate whether the medicine is administered correctly, and regulate the person’s care habits.
During the checks performed in the first months, answers are sought to the following questions:
- Have the itching, burning or pain decreased?
- Are the active areas on the skin soothed?
- Is the cream or ointment applied in the correct amount and to the correct area?
- Have irritating products been left out?
- Are there any new cracks, wounds or thickening?
Will the Controls End When Complaints Decrease?
A decrease in complaints is a good response; However, it does not mean that the need for follow-up is completely over. While some people experience lichen sclerosus comfortably for a long time, some people may experience intermittent flare-ups.
The control interval can be extended according to the physician’s evaluation. The aim here is not to perform unnecessary frequent examinations, but to not overlook the changes of the disease that may progress silently.
What are the symptoms of exacerbation?
During periods of exacerbation, itching, burning and sensitivity may become evident again. Some people may experience skin cracking, pain during intercourse, or a burning sensation on contact with urine.
Changes to watch out for are:
- Itching that increases at night
- Burning or stinging in the vulvar area
- Recurrent cracks
- Whitening, thinning or wrinkling of the skin
- Pain during intercourse
- Non-healing wound or crusting
- New hardness, thickening or discoloration
How can self-monitoring be done?
Self-monitoring is not a substitute for follow-up examination; but it helps to notice new changes early. As a person becomes familiar with his or her normal appearance, he or she can more easily distinguish areas that differ.
It is not necessary to make irritating frequent checks during observation. Gently looking at it at regular intervals, in good light, may be sufficient. If a new wound, significant thickening, bleeding, persistent sensitivity in a single spot, or a change in appearance is noticed, a physician should be consulted.
Is Daily Maintenance Part of Follow-Up?
Yes. Daily care for lichen sclerosus is an important part of long-term control. Avoiding perfumed products, harsh soaps, intense friction and applications that irritate the area may help relieve complaints.
If medication use is necessary, the dose and frequency should be continued according to the doctor’s plan. It may not be appropriate for the person to change the cream randomly or to stop the treatment suddenly when the complaint disappears.
In Which Situations Is Early Control Required?
There may be situations when it is necessary to consult a physician without waiting for the planned control date. Particularly, wounds that do not heal, bleeding, significant thickening, sensation of a new mass, rapidly increasing pain, or unilateral changes that do not go away despite treatment should be taken into consideration.
Additionally, if complaints recur frequently, if the treatment used causes irritation, or if the person is not sure about the application, an earlier meeting can be scheduled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does lichen sclerosus disappear completely?
Lichen sclerosus is often considered to have a chronic course. Complaints can be controlled with treatment; However, follow-up is important as periods of exacerbation may occur.
Is the check frequency the same for everyone?
No. The severity of the disease, response to treatment, skin changes and the person’s complaints affect the control interval. The most accurate plan is determined after the examination.
If I have no complaints, do I need to go for a check-up?
The decrease in complaints may not mean that the need for follow-up has completely ended. Checking at intervals recommended by the physician is valuable for long-term follow-up.
Which symptom is important in lichen sclerosus?
If there is a wound that does not heal, bleeding, new thickening, pain that does not go away in a single spot, or a significant change in appearance, a physician should be consulted.
What should be taken into consideration in daily maintenance?
Avoiding perfumed products, harsh soaps, and intense friction; It is important to clean the area without irritating it and to correctly apply the treatment recommended by the doctor.
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This article has been prepared for general information purposes. It is not a substitute for examination, diagnosis or personalized treatment advice.
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