Clinical Features, Complications and Autoimmunity in Male Lichen Sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with substantial morbidity. Knowledge of the aetiology and progression of lichen sclerosus is therefore needed. In this cross-sectional study, 100 male patients diagnosed with lichen sclerosus were interviewed and examined. Since there is a possible link between lichen sclerosus and autoimmunity, blood tests were analysed for thyroid disease, antinuclear antibodies and antibodies to extracellular matrix protein 1, but autoimmunity was found to be infrequent. In 72 participants active genital lichen sclerosis was observed and complications were common; 27 patients had preputial constriction and 12 meatal engagement. In total, 13 patients needed a referral to the Department of Urology, including one patient with suspected penile cancer. In conclusion, despite available treatment with ultra-potent steroids and circumcision, lichen sclerosus in males is frequently complicated by phimosis and meatal stenosis. However, the disease can also go into remission, as seen in 27% of our patients.