Open-label trial of cyclosporine for vulvar lichen sclerosus

Abstract

Background: Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of skin and mucosal surfaces which is generally difficult to treat.

Objective: We evaluated the efficacy of oral cyclosporine in refractory vulvar LS.

Methods: Five patients with refractory vulvar LS were treated with oral cyclosporine (3-4 mg/kg/d) for 3 months. They were followed up on a monthly basis.

Results: At the end of the treatment, the mean total symptom score regressed significantly and clinical findings such as erythema and erosion showed marked improvement. Mild adverse effects were seen in 3 patients.

Limitations: The patients did not give consent to rebiopsy at the end of the treatment.

Conclusion: Moderate dose of oral cyclosporine could be an effective alternative in the treatment of refractory vulvar LS.