Vulvar Craurosis due to Severe Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause Complicated by Lichen Sclerosus: Two Case Reports and Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Vulvovaginal atrophy affects approximately 45% of middle-aged women, as a result of decreased estrogen circulating levels and is often associated with vulvovaginal discomfort in menopausal patients. The spectrum of adverse consequences makes long-term treatment essential, not only for symptom relief, but also to avoid further complications. These symptoms can even be worsened if other vulvar conditions coexist, such as inflammatory dermatoses. Clinical presentation: We present two cases of patients with severe vulvar atrophy and craurosis, who required vulvo-vaginal opening associated with medical treatment. In both patients, we diagnosed severe genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) complicated by vulvar lichen sclerosus, a very rare clinical situation. In case 1, the symptoms had progressed despite local estrogen treatment for vulvovaginal atrophy, and lichen wasn’t considered in previous check-ups. In contrast, patient nº 2 presented in the ER with impossibility to urinate and was then diagnosed and treated for underlying causes. Conclusions: GSM treatment should be a priority. The absence of improvement or progression of genital atrophy should alert the specialist to the coexistence of other vulvar pathologies.