Differential Clinical Signatures of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus, Lichen Planus, and Chronic Lichen Simplex: A Comparative Study in 1355 Patients

Background: Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS), vulvar lichen planus (VLP), and vulvar lichen simplex chronicus (VLSC) are inflammatory dermatoses with overlapping clinical features, posing diagnostic challenges. VLS and VLP carry malignant potential, unlike VLSC. Comparative studies are limited despite frequent misclassification. Objective: To compare the clinical characteristics of VLS, VLP, and VLSC and identify distinguishing diagnostic features. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on clinical data from patients diagnosed with VLS, VLP, or VLSC at the Beijing Hospital Vulvar Clinic (March 2017-August 2024). Epidemiological data, symptoms, and physical findings were compared. Results: