What lies beneath: A qualitative review of misinformation on vulval lichen sclerosus

Abstract

Background

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most commonly affects the vulva and can significantly affect quality of life. While websites and social media can offer helpful information, there is little known about the content of misinformation on LS online.

Objectives

This study aimed to qualitatively assess the content of misinformation surrounding vulval LS.

Methods

We reviewed misinformation related to LS on the internet through a search on PubMed, Google and various social media platforms.

Results

The key themes of misinformation included incorrect causes of LS such as gut dysbiosis and infections; fake ‘cures’ for LS such as elimination diets, homeopathic remedies, Borax, or unproven ‘ground-breaking’ procedures like lasers and plasma-rich protein injections; and criticism of topical corticosteroids and exaggeration of potential side-effects, despite corticosteroids being the gold-standard treatment.

Conclusions

Dermatologists, gynecologists and general practitioners should be aware of these misleading claims, be prepared to refute them, and steer patients to reliable sources of information and evidence based therapies.