Successful carbon dioxide laser therapy for refractory anogenital lichen sclerosus.

BACKGROUND: Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory dermatitis that often occurs in the anogenital area and presents a therapeutic challenge. Traditional medical management includes potent topical corticosteroids and is marked by variable results.

OBJECTIVE: The objective was to describe the successful use of carbon dioxide laser ablation therapy in two women with refractory anogenital lichen sclerosus.

METHODS: A case is reported and the literature is reviewed.

RESULTS: Two women with medically recalcitrant anogenital lichen sclerosus were successfully treated with the carbon dioxide laser. Both patients tolerated the procedure well and had excellent surgical outcomes.

CONCLUSION: Lichen sclerosus recalcitrant to medical therapy presents a therapeutic challenge This may be successfully treated with the carbon dioxide laser with excellent surgical results and minimal risk.