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Is lichen sclerosus a contagious disease?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have been diagnosed with lichen sclerosus around my vulva a few months ago through biopsy. I am regularly using Dermol 500 lotion instead of soap to wash the area and applying Dermovate cream. However, I have developed a cut in the skin at the back of my vagina, which is not healing now. This is very painful to go to the toilet and also means that sex is definitely not possible. I have had this cut for about 10 days now. I have seen the GP who has simply given me Hydromol ointment and it still remains the same. In addition, my partner has also got a sore bit on his penis and we are wondering if the two could possibly be related. Could this be friction burns? My partner and I are 49 and 50. So, feel ridiculous to be having these issues and very frustrating. He is embarrassed to go to the doctors about his cut. I am unsure if it is my fault related to my condition or friction or something else. Is there any better medicated solution to aid healing rather than moisturizer based solutions? I have attached photos for your reference. Thanks in advance.

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Majid Hanif

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have thoroughly gone through your case and can well understand your genuine health concerns. Thanks for taking time to upload latest pictures (attachment removed to protect patient identity) of the lesions on both partner's genitalia.

The Probable causes

The probable cause is Lichen sclerosus is a benign condition but it may also transform into squamous cell carcinoma if not treated properly. Yes, the penile lesion may be related to the vulvar lesion. But, lichen sclerosus is not a contagious disease. Did you get the biopsy of the lesions shown in the pictures, both yours and your partner's? If not, please get them tested. You need not worry as all the symptoms are related to this disease. Sexual intercourse and urination problems are all due to this lesion and this is a real pain when a patient gets this kind of fissure along with itching of lichen. If not treated it may cause permanent scarring and that is a very painful situation.

Investigations to be done

Investigations to be done are a Biopsy of the lesions on the penis and vulva, highly recommended.

Probable diagnosis

The probable diagnosis is Lichen sclerosus.

Treatment plan

The treatment plan includes the following: 1. Patient education, it is a long-term disease and may relapse even after total relief. You need to be very calm and consistent in treatment. 2. Hydrocortisone ointment (topical Clobetasol propionate) is the treatment of choice to reduce scarring and to get relief from fissuring. It will reduce the progression of the disease. 3. Avoid scratching and keep the vulva and penis clean and dry. 4. If ever topical corticosteroid fails we add intralesional corticosteroids, or I usually go for a second-line therapy as calcineurin inhibitors.

Preventive measures

The preventive measures are to stay away from sexual intercourse until you get symptom free.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am slightly confused as you confirm as my GP told me that lichen sclerosus is not a contagious one. Can you explain why you think my partner's lesion could be related to my condition?. Please help.

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Majid Hanif

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com. That is why I have asked you both to go for a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. It may be due to some other reason like an STD (sexually transmitted disease). It is highly recommended for both of you to go for detailed biopsy. Thank you and take care.

Answered byDr. Muhammad Majid Hanif

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At February 8, 2016
Reviewed AtJanuary 25, 2024

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Muhammad Majid Hanif
Dr. Muhammad Majid Hanif

Cardiology

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