Pathology of Cervix, Vagina, and Vulva 5

Question 1

What is the etiology and main pathologic features of lichen sclerosus?

Answer 1

• Atrophy, fibrosis, and scarring of the vulva, typically in older women after menopause
• Etiology - not certain, perhaps estrogen decrease and autoimmunity
• Pathologic features
  
  • epidermal thinning (atrophy)
  • sclerotic (homogeneous and pink) stroma
  • band-like dermal lymphocytic infiltrate

Question 2

What is the etiology and main pathologic features of lichen simplex chronicus?

Answer 2

• Nonspecific vulvar condition
• Etiology - result of chornic scratching
  
  • any irritant that induces scratching can predispose
  • causes
    
    • fungal infection
    • chemical irritation
  • does NOT give rise to carcinoma
• Pathologic features
  
  • epithelial thickening (acanthosis)
  • keratinization (not normally seen at mucosal sites)
    
    • stratum corneum present