Evidence- and consensus-based guideline on lichen sclerosus

The German-language, consensus- and evidence-based S3 guideline on lichen sclerosus (LS) was developed based on the European "EuroGuiDerm Guideline on lichen sclerosus" under the leadership of the German Dermatological Society (DDG) and the German Society for Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG). Particular emphasis was placed on adapting the recommendations to the healthcare conditions in German-speaking countries. The interdisciplinary guideline development group consisted of 24 experts from 16 medical societies and actively included patient representatives in the development process. The guideline provides comprehensive recommendations on diagnosis, patient management, follow-up care, and patient education, as well as the treatment of both genital and extragenital LS in women, men, girls, and boys. Regardless of age or sex, ultrapotent or potent topical glucocorticosteroids in combination with emollients remain the standard therapy for genital LS. In male patients with LS-associated phimosis who do not respond sufficiently to standard therapy, circumcision with complete removal of the foreskin is indicated. For extragenital LS, phototherapy with UV light is recommended as an adjunct to topical treatment. Topical calcineurin inhibitors are second-line therapy.