Title: 
Lichen Sclerosis

Word Count:
367

Summary:
Lichen sclerosis can be hard to diagnosis.  This article describes some symptoms of lichen sclerosis, but for more information click on the link at the bottom of this page.


Keywords:
Sclerosis, lichen sclerosis, skin disorder, genital skin disorder


Article Body:
<p>What is lichen sclerosis and what does it look like? </p>

Lichen sclerosis (LS) is a skin condition that makes the vulva look 
white, slightly shiny, and smooth.  The skin's surface becomes thin 
and delicate so that it tears easily.  This can cause bleeding under 
the skin.  In severe cases of lichen sclerosis of the genital area, 
scarring can occur.  This causes the inner lips of the vulva to get 
smaller.  The clitoris can become covered in scar tissue. </p>

<p>What causes lichen sclerosis? </p>

<p>We do not know the exact cause of lichen sclerosis.  Scientists 
have different theories to try to explain the cause.  Some scientists 
think that an overactive immune system may play a role in causing 
the disease.  Some people may also develop lichen sclerosis due to 
their genes or to changes in hormones.  Since lichen sclerosis is 
not caused by an infection, it cannot be spread and is not 
contagious. </p>

<p>What are the symptoms of lichen sclerosis? </p>

<p>Symptoms of lichen sclerosis may be different from one person to 
another and can be mild to severe.  Girls and young women who 
have this disease may experience some or all of the following 
symptoms in the vulva area:</p>
<p>Mild to severe itching in the vulva area </p>
<p>Skin that appears fragile, pale, and/or white </p>
<p>Bruised skin with broken blood vessels or "blood blisters" </p>
<p>Small tears or fissures in the skin </p>
<p>Scar tissue covering the labia or clitoris </p>
<p>Bleeding or tearing of skin when having bowel movements </p>

<p>How is lichen sclerosis diagnosed? </p>

<p>Lichen sclerosis can be a difficult diagnosis to make.  It is not 
unusual for someone to see more than one doctor before the 
disease is finally diagnosed.  Most of the time, doctors who see 
many patients with lichen sclerosis can often make the diagnosis 
just by looking at the skin.  However in most cases if you are in the 
early stages of lichen sclerosis, the doctor may have to do a biopsy 
(removal and examination of a small sample of affected skin) to 
identify the cause of your symptoms. </p>