NATIONAL LICHEN SCLEROSUS SUPPORT GROUP
The first group in the world to be established for lichen sclerosus

A UK based voluntary group with an international membership and reputation

Celebrating 10 years of support and information 1997 - 2007
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WHAT IS LICHEN SCLEROSUS?

  • Lichen sclerosus (LS) is an uncommon and poorly recognised, chronic inflammatory skin disease.
  • The cause is not known but it is considered to be an auto-immune skin condition having strong links with other auto-immune related conditions such as thyroid, vitiligo and pernicious anaemia. 
  • Any area of the skin can be affected but most commonly the anogenital area. 
  • LS on other parts of the body is considered to be less common and is called extra genital lichen sclerosus. 
  • LS mainly affects adult women.  However, it can and does affect women at any age.
  • Men and young children (boys and girls) can also have lichen sclerosus. 
  • There is no cure but treatment is available to help control the symptoms. 
  • There have been no official surveys or statistics to ascertain the number of patients affected overall by LS.
  • It is estimated that one in 300 people may be affected. 
  • Recent unpublished studies suggest that there may be as many as 10,000 new cases each year in the UK.
  • LS is not contagious and cannot be transmitted by sexual intercourse. 
  • There is some speculation, that LS may be genetic.
  • There is a small risk of cancer of the vulva (and penile cancer)
 

Maintained by Fabia Brackenbury
Last updated 28 February 2007

© NLSSG 1999 to 2007 All rights reserved