Lichen planus Information for patients Gynaecology
page 2 of 8
What is lichen planus? Lichen planus is a non-cancerous, inflammatory skin condition that causes an itchy, non-infectious rash (small purple bumps). It may also cause sore raw areas (ulcers or erosions). It can occur in the skin on any part of the body. In some cases it can affect the vulva (the outer folds of skin around your vagina), and/or vagina and the mouth. Is this a common condition? Yes, this is fairly common in adults (approximately 1 in 50 people). What causes lichen planus? The exact cause of lichen planus is unknown. Possible factors that may increase the risk of developing lichen planus are: Women are affected more than men Women who are older Women who have thyroid problems Women who have pernicious anaemia Family history (other family members with lichen sclerosus or lichen planus so there is a possibility it may sometimes be caused by an inherited faulty gene) Triggered by medication (rare) page 3 of 8
What are the symptoms of lichen planus? You may experience the following in the affected area: No symptoms at all Rash Itching of the skin Soreness Skin may appear abnormal/change in colour Fragile skin which may split, causing stinging and pain The vulva may change in its shape or size The vagina may become narrowed Occasionally, lichen planus may affect the scalp, nails or the skin around the back passage (perianal skin) The following may help with some of the symptoms: Use moisturiser (emollient) cream instead of soap Avoid scented soap/shower gels that may irritate the skin around your vulva Can there be any complications from lichen planus? Yes. The itch and discomfort may cause you much distress. Changes to the skin around your vulva and vagina may cause difficulties when having sexual intercourse or problems in passing urine. There is also a small increased risk of developing cancer of the vulva. The exact risk is not known but cancer usually occurs in women in their 60s to 90s rather than in younger women. page 4 of 8
How is lichen planus diagnosed? Women who have any of the above symptoms will be referred to a gynaecologist. Investigations may include: Examination: Your doctor will carefully examine the affected area. Lichen planus can be simply diagnosed by looking at the vulval skin. Biopsy: If lichen planus is suspected a small sample (biopsy) of the affected skin will be removed using a local anaesthetic during your appointment. The skin sample is sent to the laboratory and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis. Blood Test: This may be taken to check the function of the thyroid gland. Can lichen planus be cured? Lichen planus can clear up within 18 months. In some women, the problem may not recur; others may have further episodes up to many years later. Unfortunately some types of lichen planus can last for many years. How is lichen planus treated? Medication: A strong steroid ointment or cream (to reduce inflammation) applied to the skin. This is often used with a bland moisturiser. The aim of the treatment is to control the symptoms of itching and soreness, and often prevents the condition from getting worse. It is important to maintain treatment for as long as advised. Irritation tends to ease after two weeks or so, but the skin may take about three months of treatment for the affected area to look and feel better. page 5 of 8
Who can I contact if I have any questions? If you need any further information then please do not hesitate to contact: Vulval Clinic Secretary: 0114 226 8300 Further Information Vulval Pain Society www.vulvalpainsociety.org British Association of Dermatologists www.bad.org.uk page 6 of 8
page 7 of 8
Produced with support from Sheffield Hospitals Charity Working together we can help local patients feel even better To donate visit www.sheffieldhospitalscharity.org.uk Registered Charity No 1169762 Alternative formats can be available on request. Please email: alternativeformats@sth.nhs.uk Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust 2018 Re-use of all or any part of this document is governed by copyright and the Re-use of Public Sector Information Regulations 2005 SI 2005 No.1515. Information on re-use can be obtained from the Information Governance Department, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals. Email infogov@sth.nhs.uk PD7800-PIL3214 v3 Issue Date: June 2018. Review Date: June 2021