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Voss FO, Groenewegen KL, Vermaat H, Bleeker MCG, van Beurden M. Prevalence of prescribing topical corticosteroids to patients with lichen sclerosus following surgery for vulvar cancer: a survey among gynaecologic oncologists in The Netherlands. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2024; 44:2294330. [PMID: 38156715 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2023.2294330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvar lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis which can progress to precursor lesion differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN) and vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC). The risk of developing recurrent vulvar cancer following LS-associated VSCC is high. Evidence suggests that treatment of LS with topical corticosteroids (TCS) can prevent progression to dVIN, VSCC and recurrences. However, current guidelines do not give any recommendation on the management of LS following surgery for VSCC. The aim of this study was to conduct a survey among all registered gynaecologic oncologists (GOs) in the Netherlands to evaluate the current management of LS patients without a history of VSCC (LSnoVSCC) and patients with LS following surgery for VSCC (LSVSCC). METHODS An online survey was distributed to all registered GOs in the Netherlands. Primary outcome measures were the frequency, type and duration of TCS treatment prescribed for LSnoVSCC and LSVSCC patients, separately. As a secondary outcome measure, reasons for treating or not treating patients with LSnoVSCC and LSVSCC with TCS were analysed. RESULTS Forty-four GOs completed the survey, resulting in a response rate of 75%. TCS were prescribed more often to patients with LSnoVSCC as compared to patients with LSVSCC (86% versus 52%, respectively, p < 0.001). If treatment was initiated, ultra-potent (class IV) TCS were most commonly prescribed for an indefinite period of time for both patient groups. The most reported reason for treating patients in both groups with TCS was symptoms, followed by clinical aspects of the lesion and prevention of progression to dVIN and VSCC. CONCLUSION The majority of GOs who participated in our study endorse the utilisation of long-term ultra-potent TCS therapy in both patients with LSnoVSCC and LSVSCC. Nevertheless, Dutch GOs are currently prescribing TCS more frequently to patients with LSnoVSCC than to patients with LSVSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Féline O Voss
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Centre Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karelina L Groenewegen
- Department of Gynaecology, Netherlands Cancer Institute/Antoni Van Leeuwenhoek hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hester Vermaat
- Department of Dermatology, Spaarne Gasthuis, Haarlem, The Netherlands
| | - Maaike C G Bleeker
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Centre Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marc van Beurden
- Department of Gynaecology, Netherlands Cancer Institute/Antoni Van Leeuwenhoek hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Vue NC, Sassani J, Prairie B, Yin Y, Krivak TC, Crafton S, Morse C, Nakayama J, Wield A, Horne ZD, Miller EM. Clinical outcomes with utilization of high-potency topical steroids in patients with lichen sclerosus-associated vulvar cancer. Gynecol Oncol 2024; 187:58-63. [PMID: 38733953 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2024.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the impact of high-potency topical steroid use on risk of recurrence of lichen sclerosus-associated vulvar cancer. METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study evaluating patients with lichen sclerosus (LS)- associated vulvar squamous cell cancer (VSCC). Demographic and clinical outcome data were compared between two comparison groups: patients who received steroids, mainly clobetasol, and patients who did not receive steroids following treatment of LS-related vulvar cancer. Categorical variables were compared using Fisher's exact test or chi-square test. Continuous variables were compared using a two-sided student's t-test. Time to recurrence (TTR) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival plot and compared using Mantel-Cox log rank test. Cox proportional hazard regression models were conducted to generate hazard ratios for both TTR and OS. A p value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS A total of 49 patients were included, with 36 patients receiving steroid treatment and 13 patients in the expectant management group. The median age of diagnosis was 68. The average BMI was 31.7 +/- 7.0. The median length of follow up was 41 months. The majority of patients were diagnosed with stage I VSCC. There was no difference in demographics or oncologic management of vulvar cancer between the two cohorts. Overall recurrence was decreased among patients who received steroid treatment when compared to patients who did not, 12 patients (33.3%) versus 9 patients (69.2%) respectively (p = 0.048). CONCLUSIONS High-potency topical steroid use following treatment of lichen sclerosus-associated vulvar squamous cell carcinoma is associated with decreased risk of recurrence and prolonged median time to recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nujsaubnusi C Vue
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Jessica Sassani
- Division of Urogynecology, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Beth Prairie
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yue Yin
- Allegheny Singer Research Institute, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Thomas C Krivak
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sarah Crafton
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Christopher Morse
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - John Nakayama
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Alyssa Wield
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Zachary D Horne
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Eirwen M Miller
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Chaudhari AS, McFadden JR, Bentz J, Evans RH, Selim MA, Sriharan A. A Mimicker of Differentiated Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia: Reactive Atypia From Noncompliance With Lichen Sclerosus Therapy. Am J Dermatopathol 2024:00000372-990000000-00330. [PMID: 38648048 DOI: 10.1097/dad.0000000000002712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (d-VIN) is an HPV-independent precursor to vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. The histology of d-VIN lesions is difficult to differentiate from that of non-neoplastic epithelial disorders, especially lichen sclerosus (LS). The authors present a case of LS, where relying on histopathology alone could have led to misdiagnosis. The patient was a 17-year-old female patient with clinical features of vulvar dermatitis and LS for 2 years. She was counseled to apply clobetasol 0.05% to the affected area daily but reported no improvement after 6 months. A biopsy of the right labia majora revealed histologic findings typical of d-VIN and near-contiguous p53 expression. These features are characteristic of d-VIN. However, d-VIN is exceedingly rare in young patients. The case was reviewed by 6 dermatopathologists and gynecologic pathologists, who observed that the degree of inflammation would be unusual postclobetasol therapy and could be due to noncompliance. A review of the patient's chart revealed that she "does not always remember to apply" clobetasol. The patient's clinician confirmed that there were compliance issues, and the follow-up biopsy was negative for d-VIN. The case was signed out as LS, with a note describing the above, and to rebiopsy if concern persisted. The authors conjecture that inflammatory infiltrates in the biopsied area caused reactive atypia due to lack of adherence to treatment. Although the patient's age helped rule out d-VIN, similar cases in elderly patients may be occurring. Pathologists must be aware that reactive forms of untreated LS can mimic d-VIN, to avoid misdiagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Advaita S Chaudhari
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Health, Lebanon, NH
| | - Jason R McFadden
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Health, Lebanon, NH
| | - Jessica Bentz
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Health, Lebanon, NH
| | - Rebecca H Evans
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Dartmouth Health, Lebanon, NH; and
| | | | - Aravindhan Sriharan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Health, Lebanon, NH
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Borghi A, Flacco ME, Pacetti L, Toni G, Corazza M. Topical Corticosteroid Phobia Among Women Affected With Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: Results From a Cross-sectional Survey. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2024; 28:169-174. [PMID: 38346422 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Topical corticosteroid (TC) phobia (TCP) is common in subjects affected with chronic inflammatory skin diseases who need prolonged corticosteroid treatments. The aim of this study was to assess TCP in women affected with vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS). MATERIALS AND METHODS This observational, cross-sectional study included adult patients with VLS who either started or were undergoing a TC treatment at our vulva unit between May 2022 and May 2023. All patients completed the self-administered TOPICOP questionnaire, which is validated for measuring concerns, worries, and beliefs about TC use. The scores obtained were analyzed in relation to demographic, history, and clinical data. RESULTS The majority of the 165 (92.1%, 66.5 ± 11.9 years) included patients who had previously undergone TC treatments, mostly for VLS; 81.8% of them had received information about TCs, mainly from dermatologists (86.7%). The median global TOPICOP score was 16.7% (interquartile range. 8.3-30.6), corresponding to a raw median value of 6.0 (interquartile range, 3.0-11.0). The median subscores for the 2 TOPICOP domains, namely, mistaken beliefs and worries about TCs, were equal to each other. At multivariate analysis, none of the collected variables showed a significant association with the degree of TCP. CONCLUSIONS In our VLS patients, TCP resulted rather low, probably because of the small skin area being treated and the high percentage of women who had already used TCs and who had received information about them from a dermatologist. This latter point suggests that adequate counseling could be a strong basis for greater awareness and serenity in the long-term use of TCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Borghi
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Flacco
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Pacetti
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giulia Toni
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Corazza
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Gupta S, Ahuja S, Kalwaniya DS, Shamsunder S, Solanki S. Vulval premalignant lesions: a review article. Obstet Gynecol Sci 2024; 67:169-185. [PMID: 38262367 PMCID: PMC10948211 DOI: 10.5468/ogs.23274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) is a noninvasive squamous lesion that is a precursor of vulvar squamous cell cancer. Currently, no screening tests are available for detecting VIN, and a biopsy is performed to confirm the clinical diagnosis. Despite sharing many risk factors with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, the diagnosis of VIN is poses challenges, contributing to its increasing prevalence. This study aimed to analyze the underlying risk factors that contribute to the development of VIN, identify specific populations at risk, and define appropriate treatment approaches. Differentiated VIN (dVIN) and usual VIN (uVIN) are the classifications of VIN. While dVIN is associated with other vulvar inflammatory disorders, such as lichen sclerosis, the more prevalent uVIN is associated with an underlying human papillomavirus infection. Patients with differentiated VIN have an increased risk of developing invasive malignancies. Few effective surveillance or management techniques exist for vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia, a preinvasive neoplasm of the vulva. For suspicious lesions, a thorough examination and focused biopsy are necessary. Depending on the specific needs of each patient, a combination of surgical and medical approaches can be used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumedha Gupta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi,
India
| | - Sana Ahuja
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi,
India
| | - Dheer Singh Kalwaniya
- Department of General Surgery, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi,
India
| | - Saritha Shamsunder
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi,
India
| | - Shalu Solanki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi,
India
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Popa A, Dumitrascu MC, Petca A, Petca RC, Sandru F. Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: Navigating Sex Hormone Dynamics and Pioneering Personalized Treatment Paradigm. J Pers Med 2024; 14:76. [PMID: 38248777 PMCID: PMC10817476 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14010076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a frequently overlooked inflammatory disorder affecting the skin and mucous membranes of the vulva. With a propensity for atrophy, severe scarring, functional impairment, and malignant evolution, VLS is a disease that recurs frequently; early diagnosis, rapid treatment, and ongoing patient follow-up are essential. Potent topical corticosteroids (TCSs) are now widely recognized as the most effective treatment for achieving remission in VLS, but considering the potential complications of long-term treatment with potent TCSs, understanding the evolution of VLS during puberty becomes particularly crucial in determining the necessity for aggressive or more conservative therapeutic interventions. Emerging treatments, including PRP (platelet-rich plasma), stem cell therapy, and energy-based lasers like fractional CO2 and Nd-YAG, are being investigated to identify more effective VLS treatments than ultrapotent topical corticosteroids. However, more research is needed to assess the efficacy and safety of these new medicines. Topical clobetasol 0.05% ointment daily for 4-12 weeks is the gold standard for treating VLS. This article is a narrative review of the English-language medical literature from 2017 to November 2023, following three main sections concerning VLS: studies of the evolution amid pubertal hormonal changes; studies of the outcomes of personalized conventional therapies; and studies addressing the spectrum of innovative modalities for VLS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelina Popa
- Department of Dermatovenerology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.P.); (F.S.)
- Dermatology Department, “Elias” University Emergency Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Cristian Dumitrascu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Emergency Hospital of Bucharest, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Aida Petca
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Elias” Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Razvan-Cosmin Petca
- Department of Urology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Urology, ‘Prof. Dr. Th. Burghele’ Clinical Hospital, 050659 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florica Sandru
- Department of Dermatovenerology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.P.); (F.S.)
- Dermatology Department, “Elias” University Emergency Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
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7
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Gil-Villalba A, Ayen-Rodriguez A, Naranjo-Diaz MJ, Ruiz-Villaverde R. Laser Therapy for Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus, a Systematic Review. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2146. [PMID: 38004286 PMCID: PMC10672171 DOI: 10.3390/life13112146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that mainly affects the anogenital area, with a higher incidence in post-menopausal women. In the long term, it can lead to loss of vulvar architecture or progress to squamous cell carcinoma. The evidence-based treatment involves high-potency topical corticosteroids in long regimens. However, second-line treatments are not well-established, including laser therapy. This current study aims to assess the level of evidence supporting this therapy. We conducted a search for primary-level studies published before April 2023 through MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and CENTRAL, with no restrictions on the publication language or date. The methodological quality and risk of bias of the included studies were evaluated using the updated Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias (RoB-2). Six studies (177 patients) met our eligibility criteria. Laser therapy was compared to topical corticosteroid treatment in five out of six studies. No significant histological differences were found, except for an increase in collagen production in the laser group. A greater reduction in itching, pain, and dyspareunia at 1 and 3 months of treatment in the laser group, as well as in the Skindex-29 at 6 months, was reported. Patient satisfaction was significantly higher among those who received laser therapy. Tolerability was excellent. No significant differences were observed in any of the previous aspects in the study compared to the placebo. In conclusion, there is not enough evidence to recommend laser therapy as a standalone treatment.
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Huisman BW, Pagan L, Ulrich M, Rissmann R, Damman J, Piek JMJ, Niemeyer-van der Kolk T, van Poelgeest MIE. Reflectance confocal microscopy as a non-invasive imaging tool in vulvar high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and lichen sclerosus: A descriptive morphological study in patients and healthy volunteers. Exp Dermatol 2023; 32:1734-1743. [PMID: 37486173 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Incorrect and delayed diagnosis of vulvar high-grade squamous intraepithelial neoplasia (vHSIL) and lichen sclerosus (LS) increases malignant progression risks and negatively impacts prognosis and quality of life. There is a need to improve diagnosis and monitoring. Reflectance confocal microscopy is a non-invasive imaging tool that visualizes skin structures at cellular resolution. The objectives were to explore feasibility and patient acceptability of vulvar RCM imaging and to identify RCM characteristics that are discriminative for vulvar HSIL and LS. This was a prospective, cross-sectional, observational clinical trial in patients with vHSIL and LS compared to healthy volunteers. RCM images and vulvar tissue samples were obtained. Five (5) patients with vHSIL, 10 patients with LS and 10 healthy volunteers were enrolled. In total, 100 image series of vulvar skin were obtained, including lesional and nonlesional sites. The RCM technique was considered acceptable for application by patients and healthy controls. Healthy vulvar skin was characterized by a homogenous, normal honeycomb patterned epidermis and a clear epidermal-dermal junctions. Vulvar HSIL and LS displayed an atypical honeycomb pattern of the epidermis and lymphocytic influx with presence of melanophages. Distinct features specifically observed in LS included the presence of hyalinised vessels and sclerotic areas in the dermis. RCM is a non-invasive imaging technique that is feasible and clinically acceptable to apply on vulvar skin, both in patients with premalignant lesions and healthy controls. Recognition and validation of disease-specific characteristics could make reflectance confocal microscopy a clinical tool to non-invasively aid identification of vulvar premalignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertine W Huisman
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Lisa Pagan
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Martina Ulrich
- CMB Collegium Medicum Berlin GmbH/Dermatology Office, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Rissmann
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey Damman
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jurgen M J Piek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Catharina Cancer Institute, Catharina Ziekenhuis, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | | | - Mariette I E van Poelgeest
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Makowska K, Nowaczyk J, Samochocki Z, Blicharz L, Rudnicka L. Topical proactive therapy in dermatology. A scoping review. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2023; 40:510-517. [PMID: 37692271 PMCID: PMC10485751 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2023.129454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The term 'proactive therapy' refers to a long-term management of clinically intact skin in previously disease-affected areas. This method was initially implemented in atopic dermatitis to maintain the remission and decrease the risk of exacerbations. Proactive therapy aims to limit the need for reactive treatment and improve the patients' quality of life. A proactive approach is likely to be adopted for other relapsing and inflammatory skin conditions in the future. This scoping review aims to identify dermatological conditions to be treated with the proactive approach, evaluate the available evidence for its efficacy and safety, as well as highlight the research gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Makowska
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Nowaczyk
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Leszek Blicharz
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lidia Rudnicka
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Wijaya M, Lee G, Fischer G. Why do some patients with vulval lichen sclerosus on long-term topical corticosteroid treatment experience ongoing poor quality of life? Australas J Dermatol 2022; 63:463-472. [PMID: 36208206 PMCID: PMC9828553 DOI: 10.1111/ajd.13926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify reasons for ongoing poor quality of life (pQOL) in a subset of long-term topical corticosteroid-treated vulval lichen sclerosus (VLS) patients. METHODS A prospective cross-sectional study of patients attending a dermato-gynaecology practice in Sydney, Australia, comparing VLS patients with good quality of life (gQOL) and pQOL, in pre-treatment and long-term treatment groups, using the Vulval Quality of Life Index (VQLI). Demographics, VQLI scores and treatment characteristics were compared between gQOL and pQOL patients. RESULTS A total of 255 biopsy-proven VLS patients, 67 in pre-treatment and 188 in long-term treated groups were considered. There were 33 (49.3%) pQOL patients in pre-treatment and 13 (6.9%) in treatment groups (p < 0.001). The highest-scoring domain in treated pQOL patients was sexuality (1.7 [interquartile range (IQR) 1.0-2.0]), followed by anxiety [1.3 (IQR 1.0-1.5]), symptoms (1.0 [IQR 0.5-1.5]) and activities of daily living (0.7 [IQR 0.3-1.0]). Compared to treated gQOL, treated pQOL had significantly higher proportions of patients with partial treatment adherence (8 [61.5%] vs 42 [24.0%], p = 0.006), suboptimal disease control (7 [53.8%] vs 20 [11.4%], p < 0.001), scarring progression (3 [23.1%] vs 7 [4.0%], p = 0.024) and urinary incontinence (5 [38.5%] vs 27 [15.4%], p = 0.049). CONCLUSIONS Only a minority of long-term treated VLS patients reported ongoing pQOL. Of those who did, sexuality and anxiety domains were found to be the main sources of distress. Three major areas distinguishing gQOL from pQOL patients were (1) treatment adherence and disease control, (2) psychological factors and (3) urinary incontinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Wijaya
- Faculty of Medicine, Northern Clinical SchoolUniversity of SydneySt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia,Department of DermatologyRoyal North Shore HospitalSt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Geoffrey Lee
- Faculty of Medicine, Northern Clinical SchoolUniversity of SydneySt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia,Department of DermatologyRoyal North Shore HospitalSt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Gayle Fischer
- Faculty of Medicine, Northern Clinical SchoolUniversity of SydneySt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia,Department of DermatologyRoyal North Shore HospitalSt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia,North Shore Private HospitalSt LeonardsNew South WalesAustralia
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Preti M, Joura E, Vieira-Baptista P, Van Beurden M, Bevilacqua F, Bleeker MCG, Bornstein J, Carcopino X, Chargari C, Cruickshank ME, Erzeneoglu BE, Gallio N, Heller D, Kesic V, Reich O, Stockdale CK, Esat Temiz B, Woelber L, Planchamp F, Zodzika J, Querleu D, Gultekin M. The European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO), the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD), the European College for the Study of Vulval Disease (ECSVD) and the European Federation for Colposcopy (EFC) consensus statements on pre-invasive vulvar lesions. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2022; 32:830-845. [PMID: 35728950 PMCID: PMC9279839 DOI: 10.1136/ijgc-2021-003262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO), the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD), the European College for the Study of Vulval Disease (ECSVD), and the European Federation for Colposcopy (EFC) developed consensus statements on pre-invasive vulvar lesions in order to improve the quality of care for patients with vulvar squamous intraepithelial neoplasia, vulvar Paget disease in situ, and melanoma in situ. For differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN), an excisional procedure must always be adopted. For vulvar high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (VHSIL), both excisional procedures and ablative ones can be used. The latter can be considered for anatomy and function preservation and must be preceded by several representative biopsies to exclude malignancy. Medical treatment (imiquimod or cidofovir) can be considered for VHSIL. Recent studies favor an approach of using imiquimod in vulvar Paget's disease. Surgery must take into consideration that the extension of the disease is usually wider than what is evident in the skin. A 2 cm margin is usually considered necessary. A wide local excision with 1 cm free surgical margins is recommended for melanoma in situ. Following treatment of pre-invasive vulvar lesions, women should be seen on a regular basis for careful clinical assessment, including biopsy of any suspicious area. Follow-up should be modulated according to the risk of recurrence (type of lesion, patient age and immunological conditions, other associated lower genital tract lesions).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Preti
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Elmar Joura
- Department of Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Pedro Vieira-Baptista
- Hospital Lusiadas Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Lower Genital Tract Unit, Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marc Van Beurden
- Centre for Gynecological Oncology Amsterdam, Netherlands Cancer Institute/Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Maaike C G Bleeker
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jacob Bornstein
- Galilee Medical Center and Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan, Israel
| | - Xavier Carcopino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hôpital Nord, APHM, Aix-Marseille University (AMU), Univ Avignon, CNRS, IRD, IMBE UMR 7263, 13397, Marseille, France
| | - Cyrus Chargari
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Paris, France
| | | | - Bilal Emre Erzeneoglu
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynaecological Oncology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Niccolò Gallio
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Debra Heller
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Vesna Kesic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Olaf Reich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Colleen K Stockdale
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Bilal Esat Temiz
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynaecological Oncology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Linn Woelber
- Department of Gynecology, Hamburg-Eppendorf University Medical Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Dysplasia Center Hamburg, Jerusalem Hospital, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Jana Zodzika
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Rīga Stradiņš university, Riga, Latvia
| | - Denis Querleu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecologic Oncology, University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Murat Gultekin
- Division of Gynaecological Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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[Translated article] RF - Importance of Topical Corticosteroid Treatment for Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus to Prevent Recurrences of Vulvar Carcinoma. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2020.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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13
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FR - La importancia del tratamiento con corticoides tópicos en pacientes con liquen escleroso vulvar en la prevención de recurrencias de carcinoma vulvar. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2022; 113:722-723. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2020.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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14
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Preti M, Joura E, Vieira-Baptista P, Van Beurden M, Bevilacqua F, Bleeker MCG, Bornstein J, Carcopino X, Chargari C, Cruickshank ME, Erzeneoglu BE, Gallio N, Heller D, Kesic V, Reich O, Stockdale CK, Temiz BE, Woelber L, Planchamp F, Zodzika J, Querleu D, Gultekin M. The European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO), the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD), the European College for the Study of Vulval Disease (ECSVD) and the European Federation for Colposcopy (EFC) Consensus Statements on Pre-invasive Vulvar Lesions. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2022; 26:229-244. [PMID: 35763611 PMCID: PMC9232287 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO), the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD), the European College for the Study of Vulval Disease (ECSVD), and the European Federation for Colposcopy (EFC) developed consensus statements on pre-invasive vulvar lesions in order to improve the quality of care for patients with vulvar squamous intraepithelial neoplasia, vulvar Paget disease in situ, and melanoma in situ. For differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN), an excisional procedure must always be adopted. For vulvar high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (VHSIL), both excisional procedures and ablative ones can be used. The latter can be considered for anatomy and function preservation and must be preceded by several representative biopsies to exclude malignancy. Medical treatment (imiquimod or cidofovir) can be considered for VHSIL. Recent studies favor an approach of using imiquimod in vulvar Paget's disease. Surgery must take into consideration that the extension of the disease is usually wider than what is evident in the skin. A 2 cm margin is usually considered necessary. A wide local excision with 1 cm free surgical margins is recommended for melanoma in situ. Following treatment of pre-invasive vulvar lesions, women should be seen on a regular basis for careful clinical assessment, including biopsy of any suspicious area. Follow-up should be modulated according to the risk of recurrence (type of lesion, patient age and immunological conditions, other associated lower genital tract lesions).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Preti
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Elmar Joura
- Department of Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer; Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Pedro Vieira-Baptista
- Hospital Lusiadas Porto, Porto, Portugal; Lower Genital Tract Unit, Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marc Van Beurden
- Centre for Gynecological Oncology Amsterdam, Netherlands Cancer Institute/Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Maaike C. G. Bleeker
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jacob Bornstein
- Galilee Medical Center and Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan, Israel
| | - Xavier Carcopino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hôpital Nord, APHM, Aix-Marseille University (AMU), Univ Avignon, CNRS, IRD, IMBE UMR 7263, 13397, Marseille, France
| | - Cyrus Chargari
- Radiation Therapy, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Paris, France
| | - Margaret E. Cruickshank
- Aberdeen Centre for Women’s Health Research, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Bilal Emre Erzeneoglu
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynaecological Oncology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Niccolò Gallio
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Vesna Kesic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Olaf Reich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Bilal Esat Temiz
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynaecological Oncology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Linn Woelber
- Department of Gynecology, Hamburg-Eppendorf University Medical Center, Dysplasia Center Hamburg, Jerusalem Hospital, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Jana Zodzika
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Rīga Stradiņš university, Riga, Latvia
| | - Denis Querleu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecologic Oncology, University Hospital, Strasbourg, France; Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Murat Gultekin
- Division of Gynaecological Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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15
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Vieira-Baptista P, Pérez-López FR, López-Baena MT, Stockdale CK, Preti M, Bornstein J. Risk of Development of Vulvar Cancer in Women With Lichen Sclerosus or Lichen Planus: A Systematic Review. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2022; 26:250-257. [PMID: 35285455 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) and possibly vulvar lichen planus (VLP) are associated with an increased vulvar cancer (VC) risk. We analyzed the risk of VC and its precursors after a diagnosis of VLS or VLP. MATERIALS AND METHODS A search was performed to identify articles describing the development of vulvar neoplasia in women with VLS or VLP. This systematic review was registered with the PROSPERO database. RESULTS Fourteen studies on VLS included 14,030 women without a history of vulvar neoplasia. Vulvar cancer, differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN), and vulvar high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion occurred in 2.2% (314/14,030), 1.2% (50/4,175), and 0.4% (2/460), respectively. Considering women with previous or current VC, the rate was 4.0% (580/14,372). In one study, dVIN preceded VC in 52.0% of the cases. Progression of dVIN to VC was 18.1% (2/11).The risk was significantly higher in the first 1-3 years after a biopsy of VLS and with advancing age; it significantly decreased with ultrapotent topical steroid use.For the 14,268 women with VLP (8 studies), the rates of VC, dVIN, and vulvar high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion were 0.3% (38/14,268), 2.5% (17/689), and 1.4% (10/711), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Vulvar lichen sclerosus is associated with an increased risk of VC, especially in the presence of dVIN and with advancing age. Ultrapotent topical steroids seem to reduce this risk. An increased risk of developing VC has been suggested for VLP. Hence, treatment and regular life-long follow-up should be offered to women with VLS or VLP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Colleen K Stockdale
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
| | - Mario Preti
- Department of Surgical Sciences University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Jacob Bornstein
- Research Institute of the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Galilee Medical Center, Safed, Israel
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16
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Tedesco M, Garelli V, Elia F, Sperati F, Morrone A, Migliano E. The efficacy of injecting Hybrid Cooperative Complexes of Hyaluronic Acid for the Treatment of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: A Preliminary Study. Dermatol Ther 2022; 35:e15338. [DOI: 10.1111/dth.15338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marinella Tedesco
- Department of Plastic and Regenerative Surgery San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS Rome Italy
| | - Valentina Garelli
- Department of Plastic and Regenerative Surgery San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS Rome Italy
| | - Fulvia Elia
- Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging Unit San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS Rome Italy
| | - Francesca Sperati
- UOSD Clinical Trial Center,Biostatistical and Bioinformatic Scientific Direction,San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS Rome Italy
| | - Aldo Morrone
- Scientific Director San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS Rome Italy
| | - Emilia Migliano
- Department of Plastic and Regenerative Surgery San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS Rome Italy
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17
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Bindakhil M, Akintoye S, Corby P, Stoopler ET, Greenberg MS, Shanti R, Tanaka TI, Sollecito TP. Influence of topical corticosteroids on malignant transformation of oral lichen planus. J Oral Pathol Med 2021; 51:188-193. [PMID: 34748663 DOI: 10.1111/jop.13257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral lichen planus (OLP) is considered an oral potentially malignant disorder. While OLP has been associated with the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), little is known about the role of topical corticosteroids therapy (TCT) in the promotion of carcinogenesis. The study aimed to determine if TCT influences the time of malignant transformation of OLP to OSCC. The study also investigates this correlation in the presence or absence of Candida overgrowth, and in the context of conventional OSCC risk factors such as smoking, alcohol use, and male gender. METHODS A retrospective analysis of electronic health records at a tertiary care academic medical center was performed. Patients with OLP and OSCC were considered for inclusion. The diagnosis of OLP required both clinical and histological documentation. RESULTS Eighty-two patients met inclusion criteria, consisting of 48 women (58.25%) and 34 men (41.5%) and the mean patient age was 65.9 years (SD = 13.25). Forty-five patients (54.9%) received TCT for OLP before they developed OSCC. The time between the OLP and OSCC diagnoses increased by four years in patients who received topical steroid therapy for OLP (p < 0.001) and decreased by three years (p = 0.010) in those with Candida overgrowth. Gender, smoking, and alcohol use did not have a statistically significant influence on the time between OLP and OSCC. CONCLUSION The management of OLP using TCT potentially delayed cancer development in our study. Conversely, it appears that Candida may play a role in the field cancerization of OLP patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Bindakhil
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sunday Akintoye
- Department of Oral Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Patricia Corby
- Department of Oral Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Eric T Stoopler
- Department of Oral Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Martin S Greenberg
- Department of Oral Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rabie Shanti
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Pharmacology, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Takako I Tanaka
- Department of Oral Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Thomas P Sollecito
- Department of Oral Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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18
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Clinicopathologic Diagnosis of Differentiated Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia and Vulvar Aberrant Maturation. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2021; 24:392-398. [PMID: 32976294 PMCID: PMC7515486 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to describe the demographic, clinical, and histopathologic features of differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN) and vulvar aberrant maturation (VAM). METHODS Specimens from 2010 to 2020 reported as dVIN or VAM were reviewed. Clinical data included age, rurality, symptoms, and evidence of lichen sclerosus (LS). Histopathologic data included epithelial thickness, keratinization, architectural and dyskeratotic features, stroma, p16, and p53. Differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia and VAM were distinguished by assessment of basal nuclear chromatin, enlargement, pleomorphism, and mitoses. RESULTS One hundred twenty women with a median age of 71 years had 179 examples of dVIN and VAM. Squamous cell carcinoma was concurrent in 66% and associated with rurality. Ten percent were asymptomatic, and all but 3 had evidence of LS. Differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia showed a range of thickness, architecture, and dyskeratosis; its unifying !feature was basal atypia. Differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia displayed hyperchromasia in 83% and easily observed mitoses in 70%. Nonkeratinizing morphology, subcategorized into basaloid and intermediate, occurred in 24% of women with dVIN. Traditional dVIN represented 62% of keratinizing cases; the remainder were atrophic (13%), hypertrophic (13%), acantholytic (8%), or subtle (5%). Vulvar aberrant maturation had abnormal stratum corneum, acanthosis, premature maturation, and enlarged vesicular nuclei. Null p53 helped distinguish dVIN from VAM and dermatoses. CONCLUSIONS The morphology of dVIN encompasses nonkeratinizing and keratinizing types, the latter subdivided into traditional, acantholytic, atrophic, hypertrophic, and subtle. Diagnosis relies on basal atypia with supportive p16 and p53. Atypia exists on a biologic spectrum with mild abnormalities of VAM and reactive change. Identification of dVIN and VAM requires collaboration between clinicians and pathologists experienced in vulvar disorders.
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Superficially Invasive Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A 37-Year-Long Experience of a Tertiary Referral Center. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13153859. [PMID: 34359760 PMCID: PMC8345506 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Superficially, invasive vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (SISCCA) (FIGO stage IA) is a rare subset of vulvar cancer defined as a single lesion measuring ≤2 cm with a depth of invasion of ≤1.0 mm. This is a retrospective study performed on 48 patients with SISCCA, surgically treated between 1981 and 2018 at the S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, to evaluate pathological characteristics and prognosis of these tumors. Ten patients (21%) recurred: seven (14%) as SISCCA and three (7%) as deeply invasive carcinoma. One case with perineural invasion and groin node metastasis at recurrence. No patient had groin lymph node metastases at initial diagnosis. Site of SISCCA, type of surgery, status of surgical margins, and histopathological features did not differ between recurrent and non-recurrent patients. We observed a non-significant trend towards an increase of recurrences in younger women (median age: 63 years vs. 70 years, p = 0.09), while, surprisingly, smaller tumors (<12 mm) were significantly related to tumor relapse (p = 0.03). Overall, SISCCA has a good long-term prognosis, regardless of the pathological characteristics and the type of surgical treatment. We recommend close follow-up, especially for younger patients and for small tumors, due to the possibility of recurrence or re-occurrence even after years.
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Corazza M, Toni G, Valpiani G, Morotti C, Borghi A. Does longer duration of corticosteroid treatment improve clearance in vulvar lichen sclerosus? Results from a single centre, comparative, open label study. Dermatol Ther 2021; 34:e14955. [PMID: 33835646 PMCID: PMC8459264 DOI: 10.1111/dth.14955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A complete clearance of vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is achieved in a minority of patients treated with a standard 12-week duration corticosteroid treatment. The aim of this pragmatic, retrospective, open label, comparative trial was to assess the effectiveness, in terms of complete clearance, of a 24-week treatment with mometasone furoate 0.1% ointment (MMF) and to compare it with a 12-week therapy. We included VLS patients treated with MMF administered for five consecutive days/week for 24 weeks (group A). The following were assessed: (a) clearance in Global Subjective Score (GSS), Global Objective Score (GOS) or both, (b) changes of these parameters and dyspareunia at treatment completion compared to baseline, (c) safety profile. All these assessments were compared with the same outcomes recorded among VLS patients who had previously undergone a 12-week MMF treatment (group B). Twenty-nine patients were included in group A and 32 in group B. The rates of patients who achieved the clearance of GSS, GOS or both parameters did not significantly differ between groups A and B. The groups did not differ in any of the effectiveness outcomes assessed. A 24-week duration corticosteroid treatment does not seem to provide significant therapeutic benefits in comparison with standard 12-week courses, especially considering the occurrence of complete clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Corazza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giulia Toni
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giorgia Valpiani
- Research Innovation Office, S. Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Morotti
- Research Innovation Office, S. Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Borghi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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21
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Quality of Life in Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus Patients Treated With Long-Term Topical Corticosteroids. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2021; 25:158-165. [PMID: 33746196 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to investigate the quality of life in vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) patients treated with long-term, individualized topical corticosteroids. METHODS A prospective cross-sectional study comparing new pretreatment and long-term treated VLS patients attending a dermatogynecology practice in Sydney, Australia. Participants were invited to complete the Vulvar Quality of Life Index (VQLI). The VQLI scores were compared between the 2 groups. RESULTS A total of 204 biopsy-proven VLS patients-68 new pretreatment and 136 treated patients on topical corticosteroids for 2 years or longer. Treated participants scored lower in all VQLI components, including total score (median = 2.0 [interquartile range {IQR} = 0.0-6.0] vs 13.5 [IQR = 7.5-22.0]; p < .001), symptoms (median = 0.5 [IQR = 0.0-0.5] vs 1.3 [IQR = 0.8-2.0]; p < .001), anxiety (median = 0.0 [IQR = 0.0-0.3] vs 0.8 [IQR = 1.1-2.0]; p < .001), activities of daily living (median = 0.2 [IQR = 0.0-0.3] vs 0.5 [IQR = 0.2-1.1]; p < .001), and sexuality (median = 0.0 [IQR = 0.0-0.7] vs 1.0 [IQR = 0.0-2.0]; p < .001). A higher proportion of treated patients achieved total scores of 0-5, representing nil to minimal impact of VLS on quality of life (98 [72.1%] vs 8 [11.8%]; p < .001). Mild and reversible adverse effects were developed in 11 patients (8.1%). Partially compliant patients were 12 times as likely to develop scarring progression than fully compliant patients (7 [22.6%] vs 2 [1.9%]; p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Long-term, individualized topical corticosteroid treatment is safe and effective in maintaining disease remission and improves the quality of life of VLS patients. Fully compliant patients demonstrate better treatment outcomes than partially compliant patients.
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22
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Lyra J, Melo C, Figueiredo R, Polonia-Valente R, Falcão V, Beires J, Vieira-Baptista P. Erosive Vulvar Lichen Planus and Risk of Vulvar Neoplasia. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2021; 25:71-75. [PMID: 33214502 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to assess the risk of vulvar cancer and precursors in a cohort of women with vulvar lichen planus (LP) and the clinical and therapeutic features of these patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective cohort study, including all the women with the diagnosis of vulvar LP, followed in one institution during a period of 11 years, was performed. Demographic and clinical data, as well as treatment, follow-up, and histology results, were evaluated. RESULTS A total of 127 women were diagnosed with vulvar LP. The mean follow-up time was 3.9 ± 0.5 years (range = 1-11 years). Ultrapotent topical corticosteroids were first-line treatment in 91.8% (n = 112), with 32 cases (25.2%) needing an alternative treatment. Overall, 30 biopsies were performed in 19 women (15%). Vulvar high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion was diagnosed in 3 women (2.4%), 2 (1.6%) of whom were later diagnosed with vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. No cases of differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia were observed. CONCLUSIONS Premalignant/malignant transformation in women with vulvar LP under surveillance and compliant with treatment is low. A close follow-up seems to be crucial to prevent future malignancy. Biopsies should be performed whenever a suspicious lesion seems during follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Lyra
- Serviço de Ginecologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Catarina Melo
- Serviço de Ginecologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Figueiredo
- Serviço de Ginecologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Polonia-Valente
- Serviço de Ginecologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Vera Falcão
- Serviço de Ginecologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Jorge Beires
- Serviço de Ginecologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal
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23
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De Giorgi V, Scarfì F, Silvestri F, Maida P, Venturi F, Trane L, Gori A. Genital piercing: A warning for the risk of vulvar lichen sclerosus. Dermatol Ther 2020; 34:e14703. [PMID: 33368949 DOI: 10.1111/dth.14703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo De Giorgi
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Federica Scarfì
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Flavia Silvestri
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Federico Venturi
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Luciana Trane
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessia Gori
- CancerResearch "AttiliaPofferi" Foundation, Pistoia, Italy
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24
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Navarrete J, Echarte L, Sujanov A, Guillones A, Vola M, Bunker CB, Agorio C, Touriño C. Platelet-rich plasma for male genital lichen sclerosus resistant to conventional therapy: First prospective study. Dermatol Ther 2020; 33:e14032. [PMID: 32683770 DOI: 10.1111/dth.14032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Ultrapotent topical corticosteroids and circumcision are usually effective for male genital lichen sclerosus (MGLSc); however, refractory cases are often referred to our Male Genital Dermatology Unit. Treatment with autologous platelet-rich plasma (TPRP) has recently been advocated as a safe and effective treatment option, but there have been no prospective studies in men to date. The objective of this study is to assess the safety and efficacy of TPRP for MGLSc resistant to conventional therapy. A prospective, open-label, single-arm, therapeutic study was carried out in this study. Inclusion criteria: resistant to conventional therapy for at least 6 months. Procedure: infiltration of 0.1 mL/cm2 PRP every 8 weeks. Monthly data recording: visual appearance with photographs and external scoring by an expert using Investigator's Global Assessment Scale (IGA scale 0-5), symptoms (scale 0-5), quality of life (QoL; Dermatology Life Quality Index [DLQI]), and complications. No. of patients included was n = 5. No. of patients excluded during treatment was n = 1. Mean initial IGA: 3.6. Mean initial DLQI: 6. TPRP n = 34 (range: 2-9; average: 6.8 per patient). Mean IGA at 18 months: 3.25. Mean DLQI at 18 months: 1.25. All patients reported being completely asymptomatic at 10 months. No. of patients with complications is n = 1 (balanitis). TPRP seems to be safe and effective, regarding symptom control and improvement in QoL; however, visual changes were minimal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Navarrete
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Clínicas "Dr. Manuel Quintela", Montevideo, Uruguay.,Department of Dermatology, Hospital Padre Hurtado, Santiago, Chile
| | - Lourdes Echarte
- Área de Terapia Celular y Medicina Regenerativa, Hospital de Clínicas "Dr. Manuel Quintela", Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Alexandra Sujanov
- Área de Terapia Celular y Medicina Regenerativa, Hospital de Clínicas "Dr. Manuel Quintela", Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Astrid Guillones
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Clínicas "Dr. Manuel Quintela", Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Magdalena Vola
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Clínicas "Dr. Manuel Quintela", Montevideo, Uruguay
| | | | - Caroline Agorio
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Clínicas "Dr. Manuel Quintela", Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Cristina Touriño
- Área de Terapia Celular y Medicina Regenerativa, Hospital de Clínicas "Dr. Manuel Quintela", Montevideo, Uruguay
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