The Need of Differential Diagnosis Between Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus and Autoimmune Dermatoses in Adolescent Girls

AbstractIntroductionVulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the anogenital region, which can manifest in prepubertal or adolescent patients. The prevailing theories point to autoimmune and genetic factors. The primary symptoms of VLS typically include vulvar itching, discomfort, dysuria, and constipation. Physical examination often reveals a characteristic figure  8 pattern, involving the labia minora, clitoral hood, and perianal region. However, these symptoms and the age of onset are nonspecific and require differentiation from autoimmune dermatoses such as bullous diseases, pemphigus diseases, epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, and dermatitis herpetiformis . We performed this study to distinguish VLS from autoimmune dermatoses, and in doing so, uncover the underlying causes of chronic vulvar changes. This knowledge will enable healthcare providers to offer appropriate medical care to affected patients.MethodsThe study was conducted between July 2020 and February 2021, with a sample of 55 girls aged 2 –18 years who did not have any systemic diseases. The study group was composed of 20 girls previously diagnosed with vulvar lichen sclerosus, while the control group included 35 girls without VLS. Questionnaires regarding the medical history of the children were completed by their legal guardians . Blood samples were collected and analyzed biochemically to assess human immunoglobulin A (IgA), IgG, and IgM antibodies against various substra...
Source: Dermatology and Therapy - Category: Dermatology Source Type: research