Treatment with Theresienöl – a new option in the management of vulvar leukoplakia

Introduction
The term vulvar leukoplakia encompasses a variety of non-inflammatory diseases that lead to skin discoloration of the external genitalia and white colouration. Most commonly, these are vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) and squamous cell hyperplasia of the vulva (SCHV). They have similar aetiology, clinical presentation, and treatment but different anatomical pathology. Aim of the study: The study aims to determine the effect of Theresienöl herbal oil treatment in patients with clinically proven diagnosis of VLS and SCHV.

Material and methods
This prospective study includes 17 patients with a diagnosis of VLS and SCHV, who underwent a 3-month treatment course with Theresienöl herbal oil. All patients were followed up for 1 year after therapy initiation, and the effect of treatment was reported using a visual analogue scale (VAS) for genital itching.

Results
The median age of patients enrolled was 60.6 years (range 42–74); 2 patients dropped out due to failure to attend follow-up visits. The mean score of the VAS taken at the beginning of treatment was 1.65 (0–5); at the 3rd month the mean score was 9 (8–10) and it remained similar at the 12th month – 8.67 (7–10).

Conclusions
Theresienöl herbal oil treatment of vulvar leukoplakia is effective and safe, but studies should be continued.