Objectives: Uncontrolled vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is often associated with distressful symptoms of genital itch, irritation, and pain and can lead to a pathological process including anatomical changes, scarring, and an elevated risk of cancer in the genital area. First-line topical corticosteroid as monotherapy is frequently not adequate to fully suppress disease activity and control symptoms. This study evaluated the efficacy of fractional CO 2 laser treatments as adjunctive therapy where recalcitrant VLS had been improved, but not adequately controlled, with topical corticosteroid treatment. Outcomes were evaluated up to 12 months after a series of CO 2 laser treatments delivered via a fractional handpiece. Materials and Methods: Women with a diagnosis of VLS supported by histologic findings on biopsy and/or clinical signs on physical examination received up to five monthly laser treatments. Subjects maintained existing topical corticosteroid and any exogenous hormone treatment during the study. Investigators assessed severity (0 = not present, 1 = mild, 2 = moderate, or 3 = severe) of clinical signs and architectural changes present before adjunctive study interventions and at followup visits. Subjects reported the presence of clinical symptoms and impact on quality of life on 4-or 5-point Likert scales. The validated Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used to assess changes in sexual function. Four subjects were biopsied before adjunctive laser treatment and at follow-up. Results: Twelve females, 11 postmenopausal, with a mean age of 57 ± 10 years received three to five monthly CO 2 laser treatments. Significant improvement in all prominent clinical signs and architectural changes were reported at the 3-and 6-month follow-ups after the treatment series. Significant improvement was maintained at the 12-month follow-up, with 89% of subjects showing at least onepoint improvement in elasticity compared to baseline; 86% in lichenification; 88% in sclerosis; and 80% in whitening and parchment-like skin. Labial fusion and the extent of disease improved in 50% of patients. Ulcerations present in three subjects at baseline resolved after treatment. Subjects reported 86% improvement in dyspareunia and 83% in skin tearing. Quality of life improved significantly after treatment (p < 0.01). The 6-month follow-up FSFI showed significant improvement in sexual function compared to baseline (p < 0.05), with a mean point improvement of 4.5. Histology findings after treatment showed some positive improvement, as a decrease in dermal hyalinized zone thickness. There were no treatment complications or adverse events related to the treatment. Conclusions: Fractional CO 2 laser treatment outcomes showed improvement in predominant clinical signs and architectural changes in VLS recalcitrant to topical corticosteroid treatment. Adjunctive laser treatment relieved symptoms and
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