Lichen Sclerosus

What is it?

Points To Remember About Lichen Sclerosus

• Lichen sclerosus usually affects the skin of the genital and anal areas. It can also appear on the upper body, breasts, and upper arms.
• The disease does not cause skin cancer but may increase your risk for cancer if your skin is scarred.
• Treatment with creams or ointments can help.
• Surgery to remove skin patches at the genitals may be an option in men, but not women. Women with severe scarring in the vagina may need surgery.
• You should see your doctor every six to 12 months in order to follow and treat any skin changes.

Lichen sclerosus is a long-term problem that usually affects the skin of the genital and anal areas. The disease can also appear on the upper body, breasts, and upper arms.

The disease does not cause skin cancer but may increase your risk for cancer if your skin is scarred. You should see your doctor every six to 12 months in order to follow and treat skin changes.