Bacterial vaginosis in the context of lichen sclerosus in a prepubertal girl

Pediatr Dermatol. 2014 Jan-Feb;31(1):95-8. doi: 10.1111/pde.12227. Epub 2013 Oct 11.

Abstract

Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus cause most vulvovaginal infections seen in prepubertal girls. Bacterial vaginosis is a common cause of abnormal vaginal discharge in women of childbearing age but is rare in children. Data are insufficient to suggest that bacterial vaginosis is an exclusively sexually transmitted disease. We report a 10-year-old girl with no history or suspicion of sexual abuse who developed bacterial vaginosis in the context of a lichen sclerosus being treated with tacrolimus ointment. Secondary bacterial infection in lichen sclerosus is uncommon. We speculate that the immunosuppressive effect of topical tacrolimus could have triggered the infection.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / administration & dosage
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus / complications*
  • Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus / drug therapy*
  • Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus / immunology
  • Opportunistic Infections / complications*
  • Tacrolimus / administration & dosage
  • Tacrolimus / adverse effects*
  • Vaginosis, Bacterial / complications*
  • Vaginosis, Bacterial / immunology

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Tacrolimus