Exosomes and PRP in the Treatment of Lichen Sclerosus

What is Lichen Sclerosus?

Lichen sclerosus is an autoimmune skin disease characterized by atrophy, thinning of the skin, itching, burning, and distortion of the genital anatomy. It can occur at any age but is especially common in older adults and postmenopausal women.

Symptoms of Lichen Sclerosus

• Severe itching that affects sleep and daily life
• White plaques and spots in the genital and anal areas
• Wrinkling, thinning, atrophy, cracks, and tears in the skin
• Pain and burning sensations
• Permanent changes in genital anatomy, including shrinkage of the labia minora, narrowing of the vaginal opening, and closure of the clitoris

Is Lichen Sclerosus Contagious?

Lichen sclerosus is an autoimmune disease in which the body mistakenly attacks its own cells. Since it is not caused by an infection, it is not contagious.

Causes and Risk Factors of Lichen Sclerosus

The exact cause of lichen sclerosus is unknown, but it is an autoimmune disorder and is often seen alongside other autoimmune diseases. Risk factors may include genetics, hormonal changes such as low estrogen, local trauma, or certain infections.

How is Lichen Sclerosus Treated?

Because lichen sclerosus is an autoimmune disease, the first line of treatment usually involves steroid creams that suppress the immune response. These treatments relieve symptoms but do not provide a permanent cure. Moisturizing creams can also help by softening the skin and reducing discomfort. However, success with these traditional treatments is limited.

Technological advances today provide hope for lichen sclerosus patients. Laser therapy stimulates collagen production and healing processes in affected areas. Combining laser therapy with PRP and exosome treatments has been shown to improve treatment outcomes.

PRP Treatment for Lichen Sclerosus

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is derived from the patient’s blood through centrifugation and is rich in growth factors and cytokines. These molecules promote tissue repair, helping lesions heal. PRP has both symptomatic and therapeutic effects in lichen sclerosus treatment.

Exosome Treatment for Lichen Sclerosus

Exosomes are also obtained from the patient’s blood but through a more complex, multi-step process. They are vesicles containing proteins, cytokines, and growth factors that promote tissue repair. Exosomes provide a stronger tissue-healing effect compared to PRP.

Laser Treatment for Lichen Sclerosus

Laser therapy stimulates collagen and elastin production and activates tissue repair mechanisms in the treated area, contributing to lesion healing and symptom relief in lichen sclerosus patients.

Frequency of PRP/Exosome/Laser Treatments

PRP, exosome, and laser treatments for lichen sclerosus are typically administered in three sessions at 3–4 week intervals. Effects usually begin to appear within 2–3 weeks.

Can Lichen Sclerosus be Completely Cured?

Lichen sclerosus is a chronic disease with an unknown exact cause, so there is no definitive cure. Traditional treatments provide short-term symptom relief but do not halt disease progression. However, combining laser therapy with PRP and exosome treatments can improve lesions and slow disease progression, enhancing patients’ quality of life.

Precautions for Lichen Sclerosus Patients

Patients with lichen sclerosus should:

• Maintain good genital hygiene
• Wear cotton underwear
• Avoid chemical cleaners and detergents, preferring natural products
• Avoid tight clothing
• Avoid spicy, carbonated, and alcoholic beverages that may worsen itching.