What is lichen simplex chronicus?

Lichen simplex chronicus or neurodermatitis is the term for an eczema that often occurs on the skin of the external genitalia.

Lichen simplex chronicus is not a sexualy transmitted disease, and it is not an allergy.

The cause of lichen simplex chronicus is not known, but stress can trigger and worsen the eczema. It is often younger adults who are affected by Lichen simplex chronicus.

What are the symptoms?

The dominant symptom is itching, and typically you scratch yourself unconsciously at night.

The skin on the external genitalia becomes thickened and at the same time it can become scaly and red. The skin may occasionally be scratched with small wounds.

How is simplex chronicus diagnosed?

Often it is enough to look at the skin, which is characterized by eczema in a very limited area. It is rarely necessary to carry out further examination.

what is the treatment?

Most patients with lichen simplex chronicus can be helped with a combination of ointment treatment and counseling.

The treatment usually takes place with corticosteriods creams. Usually, a strong steroid is used daily for 2-3 weeks to reduce the tendency to itch.

At the same time, you should refrain from scratching the eczema, as this contributes to maintaining the condition.

In more chronic cases, you can use the steroid treatment for periods of time, or as an alternative, try using Protopic ointment, which can have an eczema-relieving effect.

Need to get to control?

No, there is usually no need to monitor patients with lichen simplex chronicus. If the symptoms do not improve with the ointment treatment, it may be appropriate to be examined by a dermatologist to ensure that you have not developed an allergy to the ointments and creams used against eczema.