Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: Diagnosis and Management

Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition of the vulva that most commonly affects postmenopausal women. Although there is currently no cure, modern treatments can effectively manage VLS once diagnosed. Unfortunately, vulvar conditions are routinely underdiagnosed and undertreated. Untreated VLS can cause significant physical, emotional, and sexual discomfort, which may result in irreversible destruction of the genitalia and can progress to squamous cell carcinoma. Nurse practitioners must be aware of the key features and complications of this condition and must have a good understanding of the diagnostic criteria and treatment strategies for VLS.