Column helps reader get correct diagnosis

DEAR DR. GOTT: Thank you for your good advice column. Your article about lichen sclerosus helped me to diagnose my condition after being misdiagnosed for two years. Many thanks!

DEAR READER: I am glad I was able to help. I choose to answer certain questions for a number of reasons, including mass appeal (topics such as hypertension, cholesterol, etc.) that will interest many of my readers, topics that interest me, and common conditions that many people are embarrassed to discuss with their own physicians, such as lichen sclerosus. Often women and men will suffer in silence with a common, treatable condition simply because it affects a part of their body that is considered private.
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Lichen sclerosus an irritating condition

DEAR DR. GOTT: Please provide any information you have concerning lichen sclerosus. I was diagnosed eight years ago and have visited three doctors, who all agree I have it, but I have not had much help from the medications they have prescribed. Evidently not much is known about the cause of the problem or a cure. Mine is definitely getting worse, and I’m searching for help. I read your column and enjoy your helpful comments. Thank you for any assistance you can provide — even hints about where I could research further on my own would be welcome.

DEAR READER: Lichen sclerosus is an uncommon skin condition. It primarily affects the skin of the genitals or anus, but it can occur anywhere on the body and in anyone of any age. It is most prevalent in postmenopausal women.
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