Dermasilk briefs in vulvar lichen sclerosus: an adjuvant tool.

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.