Abstract
In 20 women with vulvar lichen sclerosus (LS) we analyzed the immunohistologic features of the dermal lymphoid infiltrate and the number of epidermal CD1a+ cells (Langerhans cells). Activated (HLA-Dr+) T cells, associated with CD1a+ accessory cells, were found in the dermis in all cases. The number of CD1a+ epidermal cells was increased, and the cells expressed strong HLA-DR+ staining. These findings suggest activation of the skin immune system in vulvar LS lesions. Conventional 2% testosterone therapy failed to modify the immunohistologic features. Clobetasol, 0.05%, application seemed more effective in down-regulating the skin's immune system activation profile.
MeSH terms
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Adolescent
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Adult
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Aged
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Antibodies, Monoclonal
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Antigens, CD / analysis
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Cell Adhesion Molecules / analysis
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Child
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Clobetasol / pharmacology
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Clobetasol / therapeutic use
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Epidermal Cells
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Epidermis / drug effects
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Epidermis / immunology
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Female
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HLA-DR Antigens / analysis
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Humans
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Langerhans Cells / drug effects
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Langerhans Cells / pathology
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Lichenoid Eruptions / drug therapy
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Lichenoid Eruptions / immunology*
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Lichenoid Eruptions / pathology
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Middle Aged
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Testosterone / pharmacology
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Testosterone / therapeutic use
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Vulvar Diseases / drug therapy
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Vulvar Diseases / immunology*
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Vulvar Diseases / pathology
Substances
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Antibodies, Monoclonal
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Antigens, CD
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Cell Adhesion Molecules
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HLA-DR Antigens
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Testosterone
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Clobetasol