What is lichen sclerosus and who does it affect?
Lichen sclerosus is an uncommon skin condition. It used to be called lichen sclerosus et atrophicus, but it is often now just called lichen sclerosus. It most commonly affects the vulva (genital skin) of women. Less commonly it affects other areas of the skin. It can occur at any age but most commonly develops in middle-aged women. It is estimated that lichen sclerosus affects about 1 in 1,000 women. However, it may be more common than this as some mild cases may go undiagnosed. In males, lichen sclerosus affects the foreskin and end of the penis. It is uncommon but can occur at any age, including in young boys. Lichen sclerosus in males used to be called balanitis xerotica obliterans.
