Lichen Sclerosus: A Survey of Diagnosis and Management Among Pediatric Dermatologists and Gynecologists.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-1-2024

Identifier

DOI: 10.36849/JDD.8084

Abstract

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic condition that warrants close follow-up due to the risk of scarring. The optimal long-term management of pediatric vulvar and perianal lichen sclerosus (PVPLS) is unknown. This study aimed to identify diagnostic, treatment, and maintenance regimens among pediatric dermatologists and pediatric/adolescent gynecologists, as well as assess provider confidence and desire for guidance on long-term PVPLS management.

METHODS: A cross-sectional 35-question survey was administered through the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance (PeDRA) and the North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology (NASPAG) between 7/13/2021 and 8/30/2021 to ascertain PVPLS diagnostic and management regimens.

RESULTS: Most responders were attending-level pediatric/adolescent gynecologists (46%) and pediatric dermatologists (41%). Although 85% of participants felt completely or very confident in diagnosing PVPLS, the majority (86%) desired further management guidelines. While the initial treatment was similar among providers, maintenance regimens and follow-up varied considerably, with only 42% recommending lifelong monitoring despite potential persistence into adulthood.

CONCLUSIONS: While initial treatment was similar among practitioners, there was variation by specialty in subsequent management and a lack of uniformity in long-term follow-up. Additional studies are needed to clarify the optimal management of PVPLS and to provide evidence-based guidelines regarding long-term follow-up. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(6):450-455. doi:10.36849/JDD.8084.

Journal Title

Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD

Volume

23

Issue

6

First Page

450

Last Page

455

MeSH Keywords

Humans; Female; Cross-Sectional Studies; Dermatologists; Practice Patterns, Physicians'; Child; Gynecology; Adolescent; Surveys and Questionnaires; Male; Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus; Dermatology; Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Gynecologists

Keywords

Cross-Sectional Studies; Dermatologists; Physicians' Practice Patterns; Gynecology; Surveys and Questionnaires; Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus; Dermatology; Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Gynecologists

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