Nd:Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Laser Treatment for Lichen Sclerosus

Efficacy of Nd:Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Laser Treatment of Lichen Sclerosus

This study evaluates the efficacy of Nd:Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Laser (Nd:YAG) Treatment of Lichen sclerosus in comparison with topical corticosteroid treatment. Half of participants will receive laser treatment and the other half corticosteroid treatment and the results will be followed for 6 months.

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic skin disease of unknown cause and very unpleasant symptoms which significantly influences the quality of life of the affected patients. Large majority of LS lesions is located in anogenital region where initial white flat papules usually develop into large, white patches of thin, itchy skin causing fusion of labia minora, narrowing of the introitus and burying of the clitoris. Most common symptoms are itching, pain, soreness, burning, dyspareunia and dysuria all strongly interfering with sexual function and patient's self image. Existing treatment options with systemic and topical medications (oral retinoids, topical steroids) have some drawbacks and recently the use of laser was proposed for treatment of LS. This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of Nd:Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Laser (Nd:YAG) Treatment of Lichen sclerosus in comparison with topical corticosteroid treatment. Half of participants will receive laser treatment and the other half corticosteroid treatment and the results will be followed for 6 months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• histologically confirmed Lichen sclerosus
• voluntary signed informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnancy
• use of photosensitizing medication
• pathology other than Lichen
• damage of tissues in the treatment area
• other inflammation
• refusal to sign informed consent