Prior anogenital herpes and human papillomavirus infections are associated with increased risk of lichen sclerosus in a large retrospective cohort study
Background:. Lichen sclerosus (LS) is an inflammatory mucocutaneous disorder typically affecting the anogenital region with unknown etiology. It is postulated that infectious etiologies could play a role in pathogenesis. Objective:. Herein, we analyze for potential associations between LS and infect...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Wolters Kluwer
2025-06-01
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| Series: | International Journal of Women's Dermatology |
| Online Access: | http://journals.lww.com/10.1097/JW9.0000000000000210 |
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| Summary: | Background:. Lichen sclerosus (LS) is an inflammatory mucocutaneous disorder typically affecting the anogenital region with unknown etiology. It is postulated that infectious etiologies could play a role in pathogenesis.
Objective:. Herein, we analyze for potential associations between LS and infectious agents.
Methods:. The TriNetX research network was utilized to compare prevalence of prior infections in patients with versus without LS and risk of LS in patients with versus without prior infections.
Results:. Patients with versus without LS had a higher prevalence of prior herpes simplex virus (HSV), human papillomavirus (HPV), gonorrhea, chlamydia, Lyme disease, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus diagnosis. Preceding infections with HSV and HPV were associated with increased risk of developing LS. Preceding vaccination for HPV was associated with decreased risk of LS.
Limitations:. We were limited to ICD-10 codes and their accuracy. We could not confirm LS histopathologically, separate genital and extragenital LS, or assess specific HPV types.
Conclusion:. Our study suggests that HSV and HPV infections may be potential LS risk factors. |
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| ISSN: | 2352-6475 |