Improvement in quality of life and sexual function in patients affected by vulvar lichen sclerosus treated with combined autologous platelet-rich plasma and fat grafting

Background: Vulvar lichen sclerosus (LS) severely impairs patients’ quality of life. Objectives: To evaluate the impact of a combined application of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and fat grafting as treatment for vulvar LS on patient quality of life. Materials & Methods: We reviewed the clinical charts of 72 patients affected by LS, who underwent regenerative surgery. The patients’ quality of life was assessed using: the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), the Skindex-29, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the patient-administered - Clinical Scoring System (CSS). Results: After reconstructive surgery, all scores improved: Skindex-29 (−31.8 [IQR: 42.1, −21.8] points; p<0.001), FSFI (7.6 [IQR: 2.7, 14.7)] points; p<0.001), Patient-administered CSS (−24 [IQR: −30, −15] points; p<0.001), DLQI (−9 [IQR: −17, −7] points; p<0.001), Physician-administered CSS (−5 [IQR: −7, −5] points; p<0.001), and IGA (median ΔIGA: −4, IQR: −4, −3; p<0.001). Conclusion: Combined treatment with PRP and fat grafting proved to be effective in improving the quality of life of patients with vulvar LS.