Work

5-Aminolaevulinic acid-based photodynamic therapy in the treatment of recalcitrant vulvar sclerosing moss: a case report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that predominantly affects prepubertal girls and postmenopausal women. The main clinical manifestations are severe vulvar itching, burning pain and dyspareunia. Corticosteroid ointment is the first-line treatment for VLS. However, long-term use may lead to skin atrophy and telangiectasia. Surgical treatment has major limitations due to trauma, long postoperative recovery, disruption of normal vulvar anatomy and impact on quality of life. 5-Aminolaevulinic acid-based photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT) is a safe and effective treatment. Here we report the case of a 59-year-old postmenopausal woman with VLS who had recurrent vulvar ulcers for more than 10 years, with dysuria for 2 years. The patient had undergone labial adhesion release surgery one year ago, but the adhesion recurred after surgery. After admission this time, surgical treatment combined with photodynamic therapy was performed and the curative effect was remarkable.

Source: Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy

DOI: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2025.104858

Authors: Guiqin Chen, Yicheng Li, Yue Wang

Institutions: Henan University, Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Genital Health and Disease

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,610