NASPAG Clinical Opinion: Diagnosis and Management of Lichen Sclerosis in Pediatric and Adolescent Patients

J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol. 2022 Apr;35(2):112-120. doi: 10.1016/j.jpag.2021.09.008. Epub 2021 Oct 2.

Abstract

This Clinical Opinion replaces the NASPAG Clinical Recommendation: Pediatric Lichen Sclerosus published in 2014. The objective of this document is to provide guidance in the diagnosis and management of vulvar lichen sclerosus (LS) in the pediatric and adolescent patient in order to treat patient symptoms and reduce long-term sequelae. LS is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the anogenital region that may present in the prepubertal or adolescent patient. Clinical presentations include significant pruritus, loss of pigmentation and vulvar adhesions with loss of normal vulvar architecture. Management includes topical agents for induction and maintenance therapy, as well as long-term follow-up for identification and treatment of recurrence and sequelae. This document is intended for use by both primary and specialty pediatric and adolescent gynecology (PAG) providers, including specialists in pediatrics, gynecology, adolescent medicine, and dermatology.

Keywords: Adolescent lichen sclerosus; Childhood lichen sclerosus; Pediatric lichen sclerosus.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Female
  • Gynecology*
  • Humans
  • Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus* / complications
  • Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus* / diagnosis
  • Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus* / therapy
  • Pediatrics*
  • Vulva
  • Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus* / diagnosis