Lichen sclerosus is a condition characterized by patchy, thin white skin that most typically appears in the genitals or around the anus. No one knows precisely what causes this condition to develop, the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases reports. Some people with lichen sclerosus also have autoimmune disorders. However, lichen sclerosus is not linked with the autoimmune gluten intolerance disorder called "celiac disease."
Lichen Sclerosus Basics
In its early stages, lichen sclerosus produces small white spots on the skin that have a smooth and shiny appearance. Over time, these patches grow in size and develop a crinkled appearance and thin consistency. This thin skin tears easily and produces purple or bright red bruises, as well as areas of scarring. Additional potential symptoms include itching, blisters, bleeding and pain or skin discomfort. People with mild forms of the disorder sometimes develop no obvious symptoms. Lichen sclerosus occurs relatively frequently in women, infrequently in men and rarely in children.
Gluten and Celiac Disease
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye, as well as the wheat/rye hybrid triticale. It gives dough made from these grains their elastic or stretchy qualities. In people with celiac disease, consumption of gluten or gluten-containing foods can trigger digestive system symptoms that include constipation, chronic diarrhea, abdominal bloating, pain and unexpected weight loss. Non-digestive symptoms associated with the disorder include fatigue, joint or bone pain, anxiety, depression, absent menstruation, oral canker sores, seizures, bone loss, arthritis, infertility and the unexplained onset of iron-deficiency anemia.
Disease Links
While no one knows why lichen sclerosus develops, some researchers have linked its onset to certain autoimmune, or self-attacking, responses in the body, Jeffrey P. Callen, M.D., explains in a 2009 issue of "Journal Watch Dermatology." When compared to people without lichen sclerosus, people with the disorder have a significantly higher rate of autoimmune disease, according to a study published in 2008 in the "Archives of Dermatology." However, celiac disease in study participants was not associated with lichen sclerosus; rather, it was associated with lichen planus, a related skin disorder.
Considerations
The authors of the study published in the "Archives of Dermatology" did conclude that there's enough evidence to classify lichen sclerosus of the vulva as a condition with "autoimmune associations." In his commentary on these findings, Callen states that this association is not strong enough to merit blood tests for autoimmune responses in patients with lichen sclerosus or lichen planus. Potential treatments for lichen sclerosus include corticosteroid medications, prescription sex hormones, immune-modulating medications and ultraviolet light treatments for cases of the disorder in non-genital areas. Some people with the disorder get better without any treatment. Consult your doctor for more information on lichen sclerosus, gluten intolerance and celiac disease.
References
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Lichen Sclerosus
- "Archives of Dermatology"; The Association of Lichen Sclerosus and Erosive Lichen Planus of the Vulva With Autoimmune Disease; Cooper, et al.; November 2008
- "Journal Watch Dermatology"; Autoimmune Disease Is More Prevalent in Vulvovaginal Lichen Sclerosus and Lichen Planus; Jeffrey P. Callen, M.D.; January 9, 2009
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Celiac Disease; September 2008
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Celiac Disease
- Biology Online: Gluten
