Lichen Simplex Chronicus
Lichen simplex chronicus (aka: neurodermatitis, pruritis vulvae, squamous hyperplasia, and hyperplastic dystrophy) is the end stage of an itch- scratch-itch cycle. The cause of the initiating "itch" that leads to lichen simplex chronicus includes irritation or allergies from chemicals (soaps, laundry detergent, fabric softeners, menstrual pads, spermicides, latex condoms, yeast creams) or infections- most commonly yeast. Intense, chronic itching results in repetitive rubbing and scratching. Often the itch is so intense that women will wake up at night from scratching in their sleep. The skin responds by thickening, with increased skin markings called lichenification. Often, fissures caused by scratching get infected.
Treatment
The treatment of lichen simplex chronicus starts by breaking the itch-scratch-itch cycle. Offending irritants must be removed (no soap, laundry detergent, fabric softener, menstrual pads, etc) all infections must be treated, and further scratching must be prevented (ice at bedtime.)
To view a photo gallery of photos of Lichen Simplex Chronicus, please click the button bellow ( PLEASE NOTE - there are explicit photos of the genitals of woman and these images are not appropriate for anyone under the age of 18.)
Conditions we treat
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