Flares and reabsorption

[LTall2222]

I am 34 and have lost a lot of my labia minora through reabsorption. I was diagnosed with LS in December 2021 after suffering for 9 months with itching. I am hoping now I am on the steroid this will slow/ prevent further changes. I am curious though, is it during a flare that people are at risk of further physical changes?

[Dr Alia Ahmed]

Thanks for your question. The physical changes seen in lichen sclerosus are due to adhesions and scarring caused by ongoing disease activity. During flares, symptoms are most active, therefore some acute physical changes will occur during this time (e.g. splitting of the skin, damage caused by scratching). Changes like resorption are chronic and occur over time. Proper treatment can control symptoms and prevent new/further skin changes.