Lichen sclerosus following genital piercing

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Dermatology
• Pathology

Background:

• Male genital lichen sclerosus (MGLSc) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition primarily affecting uncircumcised individuals.
• Chronic exposure to urine is increasingly recognized as a key factor in MGLSc pathogenesis.
• The condition typically affects the glans penis and foreskin.

Observation:

• A case study of a 45-year-old male with a 2-year history of MGLSc is presented.
• The MGLSc was localized to the site of a urethrocutaneous fistula.
• The fistula resulted from a penile piercing.

Findings:

• This represents the first documented instance of MGLSc occurring secondary to a genital piercing.
• The findings support the hypothesis that chronic urine exposure can trigger MGLSc in susceptible individuals.
• The specific anatomical location of the fistula likely facilitated prolonged epithelial contact with urine.

Implications:

• This case highlights a novel potential cause for MGLSc, broadening understanding of its etiology.
• It suggests that procedures creating abnormal urinary pathways may increase MGLSc risk.
• Further research is warranted to explore the relationship between genital piercings, fistulas, and MGLSc development.