Lichen sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus (LI-kun skluh-RO-sus) is an uncommon condition that creates patchy, white skin that's thinner than normal. Lichen sclerosus may affect skin on any part of your body, but most often involves skin of the vulva, foreskin of the penis or skin around the anus.
Anyone can get lichen sclerosus, but postmenopausal women and children who have not reached puberty are at highest risk. Left untreated, lichen sclerosus may lead to other complications.
You may not need treatment because sometimes lichen sclerosus improves on its own. If you do need treatment, your doctor can suggest options to return a more normal appearance to your skin and decrease the tendency for scarring.

 

Lichen sclerosus is a rare skin condition characterized by white, blotchy patches of thinning skin.  

Skin anatomy

 

Your skin has three layers that house your sweat and oil glands, hair follicles, melanocytes and blood vessels.  

Skin layers and melanin

 

Melanin is a natural pigment that gives your skin its color. It's produced in cells called melanocytes.  

Lichen sclerosus in genital area

 Lichen sclerosus may affect skin on any part of your body, but most often involves the skin of the vulva, foreskin of the penis or skin in the anal area.