Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: Bridging Dermatovenerological and Gynecological Management in Clinical Practice
Keywords:
vulvar lichen sclerosus, dermatovenerology, gynecology, topical corticosteroids, platelet-rich plasma, CO2 laser, multidisciplinary management, squamous cell carcinoma, autoimmunityAbstract
Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis with significant implications for gynecological health, sexual function, and oncological risk. This review synthesizes current evidence on the pathophysiology, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic strategies employed across dermatovenerology and gynecology disciplines. A systematic literature analysis was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE databases, covering publications from 2014 to 2024. Findings indicate that high-potency topical corticosteroids remain the first-line treatment, while emerging modalities including platelet-rich plasma, fractional CO2 laser, and biologics demonstrate promising efficacy in refractory cases. Collaborative management between dermatologists and gynecologists significantly improves diagnostic accuracy and treatment adherence. The malignant transformation risk to squamous cell carcinoma underscores the necessity of long-term surveillance. Multidisciplinary integration of dermatovenerological and gynecological expertise represents the optimal framework for comprehensive VLS management, addressing dermatological manifestations and reproductive health consequences simultaneously.
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