Paediatric and adolescent vulvar lichen sclerosus: delay in diagnosis

• DOI: 10.1007/s00431-025-06063-2
• Publication Date: 2025-03-08T10:46:53Z
• Authors: Victoria L. Crofts; Dehlia Moussaoui; Viktoriia Shynkarova; Michal Yaron
• Keywords: Presentation (obstetrics)

Abstract Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus(VLS) is an uncommon, often misdiagnosed condition with a chronic course. Children presenting VLS may have wide variety of complaints, which complicates diagnosis. The differentiation symptoms in the course causes great diagnostic difficulties. Delayed diagnosis impact on vulvar architecture and long-term sexual health, can lead to frustration for both patient her parents. aim this study was determine reasons delayed girls adolescents investigate number different doctors specialists consulted before VLS, reported, clinical presentation at time We conducted retrospective descriptive unicentric cohort by reviewing medical charts paediatric adolescent diagnosed tertiary Swiss Centre. average delay from first three years. Many went unrecognised despite consultations range specialists. Once topical corticosteroids were prescribed, relief very quick, usually within one month. Conclusion : Even wealthy country such as Switzerland, ample access healthcare specialists, it still takes long arrive correct treatment VLS. Improving knowledge understanding disease among paediatricians providers could earlier treatment, thereby significantly improve outcomes. What Known: • chronic, children. anatomy health. New: In Switzerland (Canton od Geneva), years, specialist access. patients see multiple diagnosis, highlighting need better awareness providers.