It is estimated that 1 in 4000 women will have vulvar or vaginal LP compared to 1 in 100 who may have oral LP. About 50% of women who have oral lichen planus may have vulvar or vaginal LP but the diagnosis may be missed as dentists do not generally enquire about genital symptoms and the mouth may not be routinely examined in those presenting with genital disease.
Soreness, burning and rawness are very common symptoms. Less commonly, Itching is present. If the outer layers of the skin break down (erosions), these areas appear moist and red. There may be a white lacy pattern on the vulva. This pattern can also be seen around the edges of the erosions.
Providers familiar with the condition may diagnose it by looking at the skin and seeing the characteristic appearance. The diagnosis is usually confirmed by taking a small piece of skin to be sent to the laboratory and then looked at under a microscope.
