Lichen sclerosus and vulvar cancer are two conditions related to women’s wellness that many don’t talk about. Both affect the vulva and can cause uncomfortable symptoms.
Both these conditions should be discussed more so individuals better understand their symptoms and management.
However, many think that lichen sclerosus and vulvar cancer are the same conditions. Continue reading to know if they are or not—discover their treatment options.
Understanding Lichen Sclerosus
Lichen sclerosus is a long-term skin condition that mostly affects the vulva but can also affect other parts of the body. The cause is unknown, but autoimmune disorders and hormonal imbalances are linked with it.
Its symptoms include:
- The thin, patchy, and pale skin of the vulva.
- Severe pain and itching
- Painful cracks or sores
- Burning
- Scarring that causes shrinking or tightening of the skin.
Women who are past their menopause, have an overactive immune system, hormonal imbalance, or family history are at risk of developing this condition.
Understanding Vulvar Cancer
Vulvar cancer is not a very common type of cancer that occurs in the outer genital skin in women. It occurs when abnormal cells grow rapidly and develop a tumour.
Symptoms of vulvar cancer include:
- A sore, lump, or ulcer on the vulva that does not heal
- Burning or pain in the vulva
- Bleeding or unusual discharge
- Thickened, rough, or coloured skin
Women over 60 years of age or those with lichen sclerosus or HPV infection are at risk of developing vulvar cancer.
Are Lichen Sclerosus and Vulvar Cancer Same?
Lichen sclerosus and vulvar cancer are two different conditions but share some of the same symptoms, so it is hard to tell them apart.
Lichen sclerosus is a skin disorder that produces white, itchy patches but isn’t cancer.
Vulvar cancer is a severe condition in which abnormal cells grow and increase uncontrollably.
Can Lichen Sclerosus Cause Cancer?
Lichen sclerosus itself isn’t cancer, but it can cause vulvar cancer in the long term. About 4-5% of women with untreated lichen sclerosus develop vulvar cancer. However, early treatment with steroid creams can prevent this from occurring.
- The following may increase the risk of lichen sclerosus developing into cancer:
Not treating lichen sclerosus - Scarring and damage to the skin over a long time
- HPV infection
- Weak immune system
If you suspect lichen sclerosus, read ‘How I cured my Lichen Sclerosus?’ Emily’s story may encourage you to step towards treatment.
How to Differentiate between Lichen Sclerosus and Vulvar Cancer?
If you are experiencing symptoms, it is well worth knowing the main differences.
If you experience white, thin, itchy patches leading to scars, it is lichen sclerosus.
On the other hand, if there is soreness, lumps, or bleeding which won’t heal, know that it is vulvar cancer and you need immediate medical attention.
Diagnosing Cancer and Lichen Sclerosus
Doctors conduct several tests to diagnose lichen sclerosus and vulvar cancer.
For lichen sclerosus:
- A doctor looks at the skin.
- Take medical history.
- A biopsy can be taken to look for cancer cells.
For vulvar cancer, the doctor:
- Look for lumps or sores.
- Advise colposcopy (magnified inspection of the vulva) is performed.
- Take a biopsy sample to determine if there is or isn’t cancer.
Treatment Options
Whether it is lichen sclerosus or vulvar cancer, early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential for quality life and prevention of any long-term complications.
Treating Lichen Sclerosus
Steroid or Hormone Creams
Topical treatments include creams containing steroids or hormones(to replenish lost oestrogen levels). They are the primary treatment for reducing skin swelling, irritation, and itching and preventing scarring.
Vaginal Moisturisers
Medical-grade moisturisers or emollients hydrate the dried skin caused by LS and prevent cracks and irritation. However, fragrance-free moisturisers should be used.
FormaV
This advanced treatment uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production, improving skin elasticity, hydration, and overall comfort. It helps rejuvenate the affected vulva and vaginal area and may enhance healing.
Morpheus8 V
With microneedling and radiofrequency energy combination, Morpheus8 V promotes deeper skin repair. It increases collagen and elastin production and rebuilds the skin structure, improving appearance and function.
Treating Vulvar Cancer
Surgical Removal of Cancer Tissue
Depending on the extent of the cancer, this may include removing part or all of the vulva. If the cancer has affected the lymph nodes nearby, they are also removed.
Radiation or Chemotherapy
These treatments are used if cancer has spread beyond the vulva or if surgery alone is insufficient. Radiations target and destroy cancer cells, while chemotherapy involves kills cancer cells or stops them from growing with the help of medicines. Depending on the severity and stage of the cancer, these treatments may be used individually or together.
Final Thoughts
Lichen sclerosus and vulvar cancer are related but different conditions. Lichen sclerosus is not cancer, but it can make it more likely for vulvar cancer to develop if not treated.
If you see your skin changing, see a doctor as soon as possible. Early treatment can keep you healthy and prevent serious problems. If you have been diagnosed with lichen sclerosus, explore empower RF treatment–discover how its technologies, the FormaV and Morpheus8 V, can help rejuvenate your genital skin inside and out and promote comfort.
Taking care is in your hands!
FAQs
1. What are the warning signs of vulvar cancer?
Colour changes, Itching, burning, soreness, lumps or warts on the vulva that bleed and never heal. All these are warning signs of vulvar cancer.
2. What age is vulvar cancer most common?
Vulvar cancer is the most common after menopause.
3. How did I cure my vulvar lichen sclerosus?
Vulvar lichen sclerosus cannot be cured completely. However, you can manage the symptoms with the help of topical steroids, moisturisers, and advanced options like FormaV and Moroheus8 V–these are the technologies of Empower RF treatment.
4. Who is at the risk of vulvar cancer?
Ageing, HPV infection, lichen sclerosus, previous pelvic radiotherapy, and immunodeficiency are the risk factors for vulvar cancer.
