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Krapf JM, Kopits I, Holloway J, Lorenzini S, Mautz T, Goldstein AT. Efficacy of in-office lysis of clitoral adhesions with excision of keratin pearls on clitoral pain and sexual function: a pre-post interventional study. J Sex Med 2024; 21:443-451. [PMID: 38515327 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae034] [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: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Keratin pearls are foci of central keratinization within concentric layers of squamous cells that can form under the clitoral prepuce and cause pain (clitorodynia); in-office removal of keratin pearls may reduce clitoral pain and improve sexual function. AIM This study aims to investigate clitoral pain and sexual function in women with partial clitoral phimosis and keratin pearls before and after in-office lysis of clitoral adhesions with keratin pearl excision (LCA-KPE). METHODS A pre-post interventional study evaluated patients who underwent LCA-KPE between January 2017 and February 2023 in 2 metropolitan gynecology clinics specializing in vulvar pain. Patients presenting with keratin pearls and partial clitoral phimosis identified through retrospective chart review were asked to complete postprocedure questionnaires and provide subjective responses on clitoral discomfort, sexual function, sexual distress, and their experience with in-office LCA-KPE. Bivariate analyses with paired t tests were conducted to determine the effect of LCA-KPE. Qualitative data were analyzed with thematic coding. OUTCOMES An 11-point pain visual analog scale was utilized to determine pre- and postprocedure clitoral discomfort and difficulty with orgasm. Female sexual dysfunction was measured with the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised. RESULTS A total of 32 of 74 patients who met inclusion criteria completed postprocedure surveys (43% response rate). Mean clitoral pain for respondents was 6.91 at baseline and 2.50 after LCA-KPE (P < .001). Mean difficulty with orgasm was significantly decreased from 5.45 at baseline to 3.13 after LCA-KPE (P < .001). Participants had a mean FSFI total score of 17.68 after treatment compared with a mean total baseline FSFI of 12.12 (P = .017). The mean FSFI score for pain was 2.43 at follow-up compared with 1.37 at baseline (P = .049). There was no significant difference in the mean Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised score before vs after the procedure (P = .27). Qualitative themes described the procedure as painful but worthwhile, with 77% of participants reporting the overall experience as positive. Recurrence rate overall was 28%, with a median of 2 repeat procedures. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Recognizing keratin pearls as a structural cause of clitoral pain and offering in-office treatment is an important tool in addressing clitorodynia and improving sexual function. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS This is the largest study to date documenting the occurrence, identifying associated pain conditions, and evaluating procedural outcomes for clitoral keratin pearls. This study was limited by a relatively small sample size. CONCLUSION In-office LCA-KPE significantly reduced clitoral discomfort and difficulty with orgasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill M Krapf
- Department of Gynecology, The Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders, Washington DC 20037, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, George Washington University, Washington DC 20037, United States
| | - Isabella Kopits
- Department of Gynecology, The Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders, Washington DC 20037, United States
| | - Jessica Holloway
- Department of Gynecology, The Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders, Washington DC 20037, United States
| | - Sylvia Lorenzini
- Department of Gynecology, The Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders, Washington DC 20037, United States
| | - Theodora Mautz
- Department of Gynecology, The Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders, Washington DC 20037, United States
| | - Andrew T Goldstein
- Department of Gynecology, The Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders, Washington DC 20037, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, George Washington University, Washington DC 20037, United States
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Lewis FM, McSweeney SM, Wendling J, Moyal‐Barracco M. Are virtual consultations suitable for patients with vulval disease? A multicentre audit of outcomes in the COVID-19 pandemic. SKIN HEALTH AND DISEASE 2023; 3:e178. [PMID: 36751328 PMCID: PMC9892414 DOI: 10.1002/ski2.178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Background During the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual consultation (VC) was used to replace in-person consultations. This raises specific questions when dealing with vulval conditions. Objectives To assess the feasibility and the efficiency of VC with and without supplementary imaging, in patients with vulval conditions, and to evaluate the images provided as an aid to diagnosis. Methods This prospective multicentre audit took place in three specialized vulval clinics in London and Paris. Anonymized data on patients' clinical characteristics, consultation characteristics (including the number and quality of any supplementary images provided) and consultation outcomes (diagnostic certainty and physician satisfaction) were collected. Characteristics and outcomes in those with or without supplementary imaging were compared amongst both new and follow-up consultations. Results A total of 316 VCs were included. In total, 18.7% (n = 59) were new patient consultations and 81.3% (n = 257) were follow-up. Supplementary imaging (photographs and/or video recordings) were provided by 28.5% (n = 90) of the total cohort. Median photographic quality was significantly higher on a five-point Likert-type scale when photographs were taken by a third party as opposed to the patient themselves (4 vs. 3, Mann-Whitney U-test, p < 0.0001). There was no association between the provision of supplementary imaging and diagnostic certainty amongst new patient consultations. However, a higher proportion of follow-up patients who provided supplementary imaging received definitive management decisions (χ 2 test, p < 0.001) and physician satisfaction with these consultations, as measured on a five-point Likert-type scale, was significantly higher (Mann-Whitney U-test, p < 0.0001). Furthermore, median physician satisfaction scores ≥4 were observed in follow-up consultations for candidiasis, lichen simplex/eczema and vulvodynia. Conclusions Although in-person consultation remains the gold standard of care, VC may have a role in the management of selected patients with vulval disease. It is possible to provide good-quality photographs for clinical assessment, particularly with the help of a third party and follow-up patients with an established, cancer-unrelated diagnosis may be best suited for this consultation modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona M. Lewis
- St John's Institute of DermatologyGuy's & St Thomas' HospitalLondonUK
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De Luca DA, Papara C, Vorobyev A, Staiger H, Bieber K, Thaçi D, Ludwig RJ. Lichen sclerosus: The 2023 update. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1106318. [PMID: 36873861 PMCID: PMC9978401 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1106318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is an underdiagnosed inflammatory mucocutaneous condition affecting the anogenital areas. Postmenopausal women are predominantly affected and, to a lesser extent, men, prepubertal children, and adolescents. The etiology of LS is still unknown. Hormonal status, frequent trauma and autoimmune diseases are well-known associations for LS, yet infections do not seem to be clear risk factors. LS pathogenesis involves factors such as a genetic predisposition and an immune-mediated Th1-specific IFNγ-induced phenotype. Furthermore, there is a distinct expression of tissue remodeling associated genes as well as microRNAs. Oxidative stress with lipid and DNA peroxidation provides an enabling microenvironment to autoimmunity and carcinogenesis. Circulating IgG autoantibodies against the extracellular matrix protein 1 and hemidesmosome may contribute to the progression of LS or simply represent an epiphenomenon. The typical clinical picture includes chronic whitish atrophic patches along with itching and soreness in the vulvar, perianal and penile regions. In addition to genital scarring, and sexual and urinary dysfunction, LS may also lead to squamous cell carcinoma. Disseminated extragenital LS and oral LS are also reported. The diagnosis is usually clinical; however, a skin biopsy should be performed in case of an unclear clinical picture, treatment failure or suspicion of a neoplasm. The gold-standard therapy is the long-term application of ultrapotent or potent topical corticosteroids and, alternatively, topical calcineurin inhibitors such as pimecrolimus or tacrolimus. Collectively, LS is a common dermatological disease with a so far incompletely understood pathogenesis and only limited treatment options. To foster translational research in LS, we provide here an update on its clinical features, pathogenesis, diagnosis and (emerging) treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A De Luca
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Cristian Papara
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Artem Vorobyev
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Hernán Staiger
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Katja Bieber
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Diamant Thaçi
- Institute and Comprehensive Center Inflammation Medicine, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Ralf J Ludwig
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
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Pope R, Lee MH, Myers A, Song J, Abou Ghayda R, Kim JY, Hong SH, Lee SB, Koyanagi A, Jacob L, Smith L, Shin JI. Lichen Sclerosus and Sexual Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Sex Med 2022; 19:1616-1624. [PMID: 36115787 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a common autoimmune dermatological condition that is often under-diagnosed in women and has been documented to affect quality of life and sexual function. AIM To determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among women with vulvar lichen sclerosus. METHODS The authors conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the existing research on LS and sexual function in database including PubMed using search terms: lichen sclerosus OR vulvar lichen sclerosus OR vulvar lichen sclerosus et atrophicus OR kraurosis vulvae) AND (sexual function OR sexual functions OR sexual disorder OR sexual disorders OR sexual activity OR sexual activities OR sexual dysfunction OR sexual dysfunctions OR dyspareunia OR vaginismus). OUTCOMES Nearly 60% of women with lichen sclerosus suffer from sexual dysfunction. RESULTS Two hundred and ten studies were initially identified. Twenty-six articles met inclusion criteria and 3 were excluded as they did not relate to sexual function, were regarding a surgical or medical intervention and sexual dysfunction and one was a review article. Therefore, 23 studies were included in the final analysis resulting in a cumulative 486 participants with LS with 208 patients experiencing any kind of sexual dysfunction. Meta-analysis presented prevalence of sexual dysfunction among LS patients as 59% (95% CI: 48 - 70%). Dyspareunia or generalized pain with intercourse was the most commonly reported type of dysfunction. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Discussing sexual concerns with women with LS could empower them to seek treatment. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS Few articles met criteria for inclusion. CONCLUSION A large proportion of women with LS experience sexual dysfunction. More research is needed, especially that which includes biopsy-proven LS and validated tools on sexual function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Pope
- Urology InstituteUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Min Ho Lee
- Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Anna Myers
- Urology InstituteUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Junmin Song
- Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Ramy Abou Ghayda
- Urology InstituteUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jong Yeob Kim
- Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Hwi Hong
- Yonsei University College of MedicineSeverance Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Bee Lee
- Ulsan University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ai Koyanagi
- Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Deu/CIBERSAM, ISCIIIUniversitat de BarcelonaFundacio Sant Joan de DeuSant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- ICREA, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Louis Jacob
- Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Deu/CIBERSAM, ISCIIIUniversitat de BarcelonaFundacio Sant Joan de DeuSant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France
| | - Lee Smith
- Center for HealthPerformance and WellbeingAnglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jae Il Shin
- Department of PediatricsYonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Guidozzi F. Lichen sclerosus of the vulva. Climacteric 2021; 24:513-520. [PMID: 34313164 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2021.1948004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Lichen sclerosus of the vulva (LSV) is seen frequently enough to warrant knowing how to diagnose it and institute appropriate treatment strategies. LSV is a chronic skin disorder, very likely of autoimmune origin, which may affect various areas of the perineum, although some women may be affected in extragenital areas. The disease has significant adverse impact on quality of life and sexual activity and may undergo malignant transformation. History of symptomatology and clinical examination is sufficient to make the diagnosis. Skin biopsy is only necessary in specific scenarios. Topical corticosteroids are still the mainstay of therapy, initially to institute remission and then for maintenance. Long-term therapy and surveillance are invariably necessary. Surgery does have a role, but only in specific associated conditions. A number of alternative treatment options have been mooted, especially if the disease is resistant to topical corticosteroids, but these options are still being assessed and studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Guidozzi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Parklane Clinic, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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When Love Hurts: Evaluation and Management of Painful Intercourse in Women. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-020-00300-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Lauber F, Vaz I, Krebs J, Günthert AR. Outcome of perineoplasty and de-adhesion in patients with vulvar Lichen sclerosus and sexual disorders. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2021; 258:38-42. [PMID: 33412460 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.12.030] [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: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vulvar Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory disease in which architectural changes and symptoms like itching, soreness, pain and dyspareunia can affect quality of life and sexual activity. Perineoplasty has been shown to be effective as a supportive surgical treatment in women with refractory dyspareunia in addition to the standard topical immunosuppressive treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate retrospectively general complaints, patient satisfaction concerning sexual activity, reduction of dyspareunia/apareunia, orgasm ability and recurrence of LS after perineoplasty. STUDY DESIGN This study is a retrospective monocentric observational study, in which patients with vulvar LS who had undergone perineoplasty were invited to fill out a standardized questionnaire during the follow-up time. The main outcome measure is the overall patient satisfaction after surgical therapy of vulvar LS. RESULTS Forty-one of the 70 invited patients with a median age at surgery of 58 years (18-74 years) and a median 60 years (19-76 years) at the last follow-up were evaluated. The median follow-up time was 2.3 years (1-5 years). There was a significant (p < 0.001) reduction in general complaints after surgery. Twenty-two patients were very satisfied, 15 were satisfied and 3 were not satisfied with the outcome of the surgery. Only 2 patients would not recommend the surgery. Although, there was a significant (p = 0.02) reduction in dyspareunia after surgery, 10 patients still felt pain during sexual intercourse. CONCLUSION This is one of the largest studies reporting on long-term results of perineoplasty. It showed that perineoplasty is a safe surgical treatment option with a high satisfaction rate in patients with dyspareunia due to LS and a desire to regain sexual activity. Perineoplasty can improve sexual activity and achieve overall satisfaction in selected patients even though the recurrence rate of LS in sexually active patients remains high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Lauber
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Inês Vaz
- gyn-zentrum ag, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Krebs
- Clinical Trial Unit, Swiss Paraplegic Centre, Nottwil, Switzerland
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Aboud C, Cristinelli S, Roccaro G, Meningaud JP, Hersant B. Surgical treatment of clitoral phimosis. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2020; 50:101919. [PMID: 32971308 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2020.101919] [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: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The clitoris has a crucial role in the feminine pleasure. Chronic inflammatory dermatosis along with post-menopausal atrophy of the vulva and obstetrical traumas can cause clitoral phimosis, thereby compromising its function. Medical treatments exist depending on the etiology, but when irreversible scarring occur, a surgical treatment can be necessary to regain its function. We present here our surgical technique that achieves excellent functional results with low morbidity and the outcome of our patients in order to improve this sexual dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Aboud
- Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, 51 avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, Créteil, 94010, France
| | - Stéphane Cristinelli
- Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, 51 avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, Créteil, 94010, France
| | - Giovanni Roccaro
- Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, 51 avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, Créteil, 94010, France
| | - Jean-Paul Meningaud
- Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, 51 avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, Créteil, 94010, France
| | - Barbara Hersant
- Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, 51 avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, Créteil, 94010, France.
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Chmel R, Nováčková M, Fait T, Zámečník L, Krejčová L, Pastor Z. Clitoral Phimosis: Effects on Female Sexual Function and Surgical Treatment Outcomes. J Sex Med 2020; 16:257-266. [PMID: 30770072 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2018.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surgery is the optimal treatment for a severe form of clitoral phimosis (CP) that is initiated by lichen sclerosus (LS) and causes female sexual dysfunction. AIM We aimed to determine the etiology of clitoral phimosis, its influence on sexual function, and outcomes after surgical treatment. METHODS In this prospective cohort study, we observed the occurrence of clitoral phimosis and related changes in a group of 3,650 sexually active heterosexual women with a mean age of 34.8 ± 14.9 years (20-45 years) from September 2014 to September 2016. Ultimately, we compared the changes in sexual function and distress and satisfaction with postoperative genital appearance in 9 patients with severe clitoral phimosis at 12 months after surgical treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Sexual function was evaluated using the Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised and the Female Sexual Function Index, and the patient's genital self-image was evaluated using the Female Genital Self-Image Scale; gynecologic examinations were performed on all patients. RESULTS Various forms of CP were found in 46 of 3,650 patients (1.3%). Severe forms of CP were found in 9 cases, but it was complicated by stenosis of vaginal introitus in only 2 cases. These 9 patients underwent circumcision, and 2 of them underwent perineoplasty. Female sexual dysfunction occurred mainly in those with LS and severe forms of phimosis. Sexual function, as indicated by the total Female Sexual Function Index score, was significantly improved at 12 months after surgery (17.9 ± 0.9 vs 26.6 ± 0.5; P < .001). The Female Genital Self-Image Scale score assessing genital perception was significantly higher after surgery than before in women who underwent clitoral circumcision (20 ± 3.0 vs 12.3 ± 3.3; P < .001). The Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised score was significantly lower after surgery than before (21.3 ± 6.2 vs 33.8 ± 6.9; P < .001). Sexual function in 2 women with CP and stenosis of vaginal introitus improved after surgery, but the sexual distress level did not decrease significantly. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS The results of this study will help clinicians to centralize treatment methods and advise patients on the management of clitoral phimosis. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS This is a study evaluating postoperative results of sexual function, distress, and satisfaction with genitalia in women with severe CP, using validated questionnaires. However, the small number of patients and the absence of an appropriate control group are limitations. CONCLUSION Surgical treatment of clitoral phimosis can improve sexual function, but because LS-a common underlying cause-is chronic in nature, patients may experience recurrence. Chmel R, M Nováčková, Fait T, et al. Clitoral Phimosis: Effects on Female Sexual Function and Surgical Treatment Outcomes. J Sex Med 2019;16:257-266.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Chmel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, V Úvalu 84, Prague 5, Czech Republic
| | - Marta Nováčková
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, V Úvalu 84, Prague 5, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Fait
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, V Úvalu 84, Prague 5, Czech Republic
| | - Libor Zámečník
- Department of Urology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ke Karlovu 6, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Krejčová
- Institute of Sexology, 1st Medical Faculty, Charles University, Ke Karlovu 460/11, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Zlatko Pastor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, V Úvalu 84, Prague 5, Czech Republic; Institute of Sexology, 1st Medical Faculty, Charles University, Ke Karlovu 460/11, Prague 2, Czech Republic.
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Krapf JM, Mitchell L, Holton MA, Goldstein AT. Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: Current Perspectives. Int J Womens Health 2020; 12:11-20. [PMID: 32021489 PMCID: PMC6970240 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s191200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvar lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic, inflammatory dermatosis that may lead to scarring of the vulva and sexual dysfunction. LS affects women of all ages and often goes unrecognized and underreported. Uncertainty continues to exist around its pathogenesis, histologic diagnosis, and treatment. However, there have been great advances in our understanding of autoimmunogenic targets in disease formation and progression. In addition, there has been recent investigation of potential non-steroid-based treatments, including platelet-rich plasma therapy and energy-based modalities such as the fractional CO2 laser, photodynamic therapy, and high intensity focused ultrasound. Refinement of surgical techniques for restoring vulvar anatomy and treating clitoral phimosis, introital stenosis, and vulvar granuloma fissuratum is leading to improved patient outcomes. This review summarizes current perspectives on the pathogenesis, symptomatology, diagnosis, and treatment for vulvar lichen sclerosus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill M Krapf
- The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.,The Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Leia Mitchell
- The Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Michelle A Holton
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - Andrew T Goldstein
- The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.,The Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders, Washington, DC, USA
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Abstract
Vulvovaginal conditions are common in mature women. This reflects age-related changes in immunity and skin barrier function of vulvovaginal tissues. Vaginal atrophy is commonly complicated by dryness and inflammation, which makes postmenopausal atrophic vaginitis a virtually ubiquitous condition. The differential of vaginitis includes inflammatory, infectious, and malignant diseases, plus drug hypersensitivity. Atrophic vaginitis is treated with estrogen replacement therapy. Vulvovaginal malignant melanoma occurs predominantly in postmenopausal women and carries a poor prognosis. Similarly, the incidence of vulvovaginal malignancies, such as squamous cell carcinoma and extramammary Paget disease, rises exponentially after 65 years of age. Early diagnosis of these malignancies is of utmost importance. Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus and vulvovaginal candidosis are among the most common postmenopausal vulvovaginal conditions. Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus is associated with significant morbidity, and its management can be challenging. The incidence of vulvovaginal candidosis increases in patients on estrogen replacement therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Matthews
- Department of Dermatology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Vivian Wong
- Department of Dermatology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | | | - George Kroumpouzos
- Department of Dermatology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Dermatology, Medical School of Jundiaí, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. R. Pérez-López
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital Universitario Lozano-Blesa, University of Zaragoza Faculty of Medicine, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - P. Vieira-Baptista
- Lower Genital Tract Disease Unit, Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal
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Krapf JM, Goldstein AT. Vulvar Dermatoses: Diagnosis, Management, and Impact on Sexual Function. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-016-0090-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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