Question:
I have a problem which has been going on for 2.5 years now, intense
vaginal and rectal itching. I've seen a number of different doctors
aids and Gynecologists during this time and also tried every over the
counter medication I can think of. I also tried going 'scent-free.'
One problem occasionally accompanying the itching is small bumps. One
person thought these were genital warts and burned a few off. I don't
believe they were after further research.
The current theory is that the skin of the entire area has thickened.
The skin looks like it has a whitish/grey cast to it, almost like there
are fat deposits under the skin. The Dr. also said it looked very dry.
Whether that is the cause or the result of the itching they don't know.
In any case, I am currently using a topical preparation of testosterone
in a eucerine base, and I don't like it.
It has been the first thing to help, and I've been extremely happy
to be able to shower without pain for the first time in 2.5 years, but it
is causing disturbing side-effects (darkening facial hair, spotting and
cramping, etc...) and would like to find either a different treatment
or, ideally, the cause!!
I think it might be a hormonal imbalance as its always worse about the
time of my period, but how likely is this? My period is still regular
and hasn't really changed in intensity or symptoms (no PMS, etc.). The
problem did, however, start about the time as a possible miscarriage.
Also, does anyone have any recommendations for a specialist or anyone
doing promising research in this field? I am in Boston but am willing
to travel if it means getting this problem resolved.
Any theories or recommendations will be greatly appreciated!
Answer:
Ellen, It sounds like you're describing lichen sclerosis et
atrophicus, which is a chronic skin disorder in women. It often
assumes a "figure 8" configuration around the perineum and does
respond to testosterone, but I usually put it in an aquaphor base,
which is better tolerated. Look in any gynecology book or derm book
under lichen sclerosis or kaurosis vulvae...
