Lichen Sclerosis

[ljmulledy]

I have LS on my shoulders and back. As i understand it is related to autommune anemias. I have been using Rx steroid creams but it's not healing. Any suggestions?

[Foggyme Administrator]

Hi ljmulledy.

My understanding is that nobody really understands or knows what causes linen sclerosus (or lichen planus). Both are autoimmune conditions and as such are more likely to be experienced by anyone who has another autoimmune condition (for instance, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, lupus, pernicious anaemia etc.) - simply because autoimmune diseases tend to occur in clusters. So there is no direct connection with autimmune anaemia (as in the macrocytic anaemia sometimes experienced with PA) but rather an association on the basis of both being autoimmune in origin.

It would be usual to refer anyone suspected of suffering from lichen sclerosus or lichen planus to a dermatologist for biopsy to confirm the condition and for advice about treatment - topical application of steroid cream being only one option. It’s also worth noting that steroid cream should not be used on a long term basis unless under medical supervision, and if it’s not working, then other treatment options should be explored (in this case, via advice from a dermatologist).

Here's more information about both conditions.

patient.info/doctor/lichen-...

patient.info/doctor/lichen-...

It's also worth noting that it's always advisable to have auto-antibody blood screens performed if one or more autoimmune condition is present, so as to rule out other potential autoimmune conditions (since the little beasts can tend to arrive in clusters).

So...if you haven't already been seen by a dermatologist, first step would be to ask your GP to refer you to one. They can confirm disgnosis and treat accordingly.

The second step would be to have auto-antibody screening to rule out other autoimmune conditions. If antibody screen returned positive results, this would require referral to a rheumatologist for further tests and investigations.

Sorry there aren't any 'quick-fix' answers...just suggestion on how you might like to proceed...certainly not something you should attempt to treat without medical advice, in particular if, as you say, this is not healing.

Good luck 👍