lichen sclerosus

[Guest Posts]

Is there a genetic component in patients who are affected with lichen sclerosus?

[Dr Jane Sterling]

There is almost certainly a genetic component to the likelihood of being affected with lichen sclerosus. At present no specific gene has been identified that can be tested for in order to know if someone has an increased risk of developing lichen sclerosus.
The basis for thinking that there is a genetic link, is a) the fact that sometimes lichen sclerosus develops in more than one member of the family and b) Lichen sclerosus is more common in families who have other immune-driven disorders such as thyroid over activity or underactivity. However, many people who have lichen sclerosus do not know of anyone else in the family with LS or any condition such as thyroid disease.