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Normal and Abnormal Prepuce pp 205–211Cite as

Lichen Sclerosus

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Abstract

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory and atrophic dermatitis of unknown etiology. In boys LS is mainly involving the prepuce, glans, and the distal urethra.

The actual incidence of LS is thought to be clinically underestimated by as much as 50%. Sending the prepuce to histology therefore is recommended. Early diagnosis and treatment of LS is essential because extensive involvement may worsen prognosis. In mild forms of LS with erythema, meatal narrowing and preputial fibrosis, topical corticosteroids have been applied successfully. However, circumcision is the treatment of choice in LS of the foreskin. Urethral involvement of LS is difficult to treat. Radical excision of all affected parts of the skin and urethra is essential. In cases where LS is affecting the urethra urethral reconstruction must be considered. Long-term follow-up after treatment is mandatory for all patients because of a high recurrence rate.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pediatric Surgery, Center for Pediatric Urology, General Hospital/Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria

    Alexander Springer

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Correspondence to Alexander Springer .

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Springer, A. (2020). Lichen Sclerosus. In: Normal and Abnormal Prepuce. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-37621-5_21

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-37621-5_21

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-030-37620-8

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-030-37621-5

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