What ointment to apply for vulvar lichen sclerosus?

Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 14, 2024
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Vulvar lichen sclerosus clinically manifests as localized whitening of the vulvar skin color, accompanied by itching, which can be severe. Patients with severe conditions typically find it difficult to achieve therapeutic effects with general medications, so it is crucial for patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus to visit a hospital for timely and appropriate treatment. The occurrence of vulvar lichen sclerosus is primarily due to local malnutrition and excessive keratinization of the vulvar skin. Therefore, patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus are generally considered to have a complex gynecological condition. This condition can be symptomatically treated with the ointment, bamboo red fungus cream, or by undergoing physical therapy in larger hospitals, which may include treatment with the Haifu knife. Therefore, it is essential for patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus to receive a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment in a hospital.

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Written by Jia Rui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is vulvar lichen sclerosus contagious?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus is non-contagious and cannot be cross-infected, but it is hereditary and can skip generations. Additionally, it is important to maintain hygiene during sexual intercourse, preferably using condoms, as this is beneficial for the condition. Furthermore, regular physical exercise should be undertaken to enhance the body's resistance and immunity. It is important to keep the area clean and dry, avoid using soap or irritating substances for cleansing the vulva, and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the symptoms of vulvar lichen sclerosus?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus, also known as lichen sclerosis, is one of two conditions, the other being epithelial hyperplasia, characterized by the appearance of white patches on the vulva. Both conditions are marked by severe itching as a common symptom, though they differ in subtle ways. For instance, in the case of lichen sclerosis, the affected skin and mucous membranes become less elastic and thinner, as seen with the shrinking of the labia minora. Women may experience a burning sensation locally and pain during intercourse. When epithelial hyperplasia occurs, the local skin and mucous membranes thicken, often showing scratch marks due to extreme itching.

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Written by Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Symptoms of vulvar lichen sclerosus around the anus

Vulvar lichen sclerosus encompasses a multitude of different pathological types, primarily including simple lichen, sclerotic lichen, as well as lichen planus, Behcet's disease, vulvar vitiligo, and other secondary hypopigmentary disorders of the vulva. However, the primary conditions that can present with white lesions in the perianal area are sclerotic lichen and vulvar vitiligo. If the perianal white lesions are caused by vulvar vitiligo, they generally do not exhibit any symptoms and do not require special treatment. If the condition is sclerotic lichen, it may cause local pain, itching, and a burning sensation in the perianal area, particularly after defecation, which can lead to discomfort.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Which department should I go to for vulvar lichen sclerosus?

Patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus generally visit the gynecology department of hospitals, as the diagnosis and treatment of this condition are considered a kind of complex gynecological issue. This disease generally cannot be treated in smaller hospitals, and better treatment is usually available in third-grade, class-A hospitals’ gynecology departments. The formation of vulvar lichen sclerosus is mostly due to poor nutrition of the vulva, so patients with this condition should definitely seek treatment at large, third-grade, class-A hospitals. The treatment can generally be conducted through physical methods or topical medications. During the treatment process, the majority of cases can experience symptom relief. Vulvar lichen sclerosus is generally benign, but in very rare cases, it may turn malignant. Therefore, patients with worsening conditions can undergo a biopsy in the hospital to determine if the lichen sclerosus is worsening or if there is a tendency towards vulvar cancer. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician, and do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Niu Hai Jing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can vulvar leukoplakia be cured completely?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus cannot be cured. Vulvar lichen sclerosus is also known as vulvar sclerosis and is mainly characterized by atrophy, thinning, and depigmentation of the vulvar and perianal skin, turning it white. The symptoms mainly include vulvar itching and a burning sensation. Sometimes the skin may appear shiny, wrinkled, and less elastic, which can also lead to cracking and peeling. Treatment generally involves local medications and is primarily supported by physical therapy. While most treatments are effective, they are not curative and require repeated therapy.