1. < Autoimmune Diseases

Newly diagnosed and confused over treatment for lichen sclerosus

Posted by ronag @ronag, Jan 24, 2023

I've been diagnosed with lichen sclerosus. I have questions as to what is the best treatment: which steroid and at what dosage. My gynecologist initially prescribed mometasone cream 0.1% twice a week. This didn't really control the itching. My dermatologist is recommending clobetasol ointment 0.05% once a day for 2 months, followed by twice weekly forever. Itching, while not completely gone, is certainly more controlled after a week's treatment with the clobetasol. However, I'm a bit concerned over using it daily for 2 months. Can you please share what's worked for you? Can I expect to be using a steroid for life? To throw into the mix--I have long covid. Thank you for any help in navigating this.

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ronag | @ronag | Nov 2 9:52pm
In reply to @willows "I started with twice a week from the outset. This was because I had had LS..." + (show)
@willows

I started with twice a week from the outset. This was because I had had LS for years before getting a proper diagnosis and at that point my skin was very thin and I expect my dermatologist wanted be conservative in her approach. In other cases, if the woman has thicker or less fragile skin a more aggressive treatment might be suitable. I would ask Why a given treatment is being recommended for you. Also, if a little bit will do the trick, so much the better, why use more. If a little bit doesn’t do the trick, time to re-evaluate.

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Thank you for your reply. I must admit, I've been slathering the clobetasol on twice a week. Am I putting on too much? Possibly. Labial atrophy is present. My semi-annual gynecologic appointment is next week. I'll discuss the issue of quantity with her. I do find that adding an estrogen cream twice a week (not the same days as the clobetasol) has helped with the thinning. If I stop the estrogen, more atrophy occurs.

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cher51 | @cher51 | Nov 3 11:43am

I use the Clobetasol when I have a flare up. When the symptoms go away I stop using. I use as needed.

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marquis113 | @marquis113 | Nov 3 6:50pm

I have the same treatment. Was told this is life long! I also alternate estrogen and clobetasol. Was told I only need a dime size application. Relieves itching and burning.

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