Dermasilk briefs in vulvar lichen sclerosus: an adjuvant tool.
Author(s): D'Antuono A, Bellavista S, Negosanti F, Zauli S, Baldi E, Patrizi A.
Affiliation(s): Department of Internal Medicine, Geriatry and Nephrology, Section of Dermatology,
San'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Italy.
Publication date & source: 2011, J Low Genit Tract Dis. , 15(4):287-91
OBJECTIVE: : The purpose of our study was to evaluate whether briefs made of
Dermasilk fabric could be an adjuvant tool in the management of vulvar lichen
sclerosus (LS).
MATERIALS AND METHODS: : A controlled, randomized, double-blind study versus
placebo was conducted, comparing Dermasilk versus standard cotton briefs in
patients affected by LS during treatment with clobetasol propionate 0.05%
ointment and vitamin E moisturizer. For each patient, an evaluation of objective
genital signs and subjective symptoms typical of LS was recorded before the start
of treatment, after 1 month, and after 6 months of the study. Statistical
analysis was performed with SPSS 17.0 for Windows.
RESULTS: : Forty-two women affected by LS were recruited and divided into those
wearing Dermasilk or cotton briefs. Patients wearing Dermasilk briefs showed a
better improvement in the clinical symptoms of burning sensation, skin
irritation, and pain (Fisher test, p < .0001) compared with the cotton placebo
group. The improvement in itching was also faster in the Dermasilk group (Fisher
exact test, p < .05). Erythema also showed a better improvement in the Dermasilk
group (Fisher test, p < 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS: : Dermasilk fabric seems to be a useful adjunct to topical treatment
in producing a better and more rapid control of symptoms in patients with LS.
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