Differential Diagnosis for Lichen Sclerosis on the Vulva
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Lichen planus: This condition often presents with similar symptoms to lichen sclerosis, such as itching and white, patchy skin, but it tends to have more erosive lesions and can affect mucous membranes.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN): This is a precancerous condition that can cause similar symptoms to lichen sclerosis, including itching and skin changes.
- Psoriasis: This chronic skin condition can cause red, scaly patches on the vulva, which may be mistaken for lichen sclerosis.
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis): Eczema can cause itching, redness, and skin thickening on the vulva, similar to lichen sclerosis.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of skin cancer can cause similar symptoms to lichen sclerosis, including itching and skin changes, and is a critical diagnosis not to miss due to its potential for serious consequences if left untreated.
- Extramammary Paget's disease: A rare skin cancer that can cause itching, redness, and skin changes on the vulva, which may be mistaken for lichen sclerosis.
Rare Diagnoses
- Morphea: A rare skin condition that can cause thickening and hardening of the skin on the vulva, which may be mistaken for lichen sclerosis.
- Lichen nitidus: A rare skin condition that can cause small, shiny bumps on the vulva, which may be mistaken for lichen sclerosis.
- Vulvar Crohn's disease: A rare condition that can cause skin changes, itching, and pain on the vulva, which may be mistaken for lichen sclerosis.