Associations of Lichen Sclerosus With Autoimmune Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background: Previous studies reported limited findings on the association between lichen sclerosus (LS) and autoimmune diseases.

Objective: To assess the associations of LS with autoimmune diseases.

Search strategy: MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL were searched on 20 January 2026.

Selection criteria: We included case-control, cohort and cross-sectional studies that examined the associations of LS with autoimmune diseases.

Data collection and analysis: Four authors independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, with discrepancies resolved by discussion with a senior author. A random-effects model meta-analysis was conducted when data from ≥ three studies were available for an outcome.

Results: We included 11 observational studies. LS was associated with dermatologic autoimmune disease including morphoea (OR 33.33, 95% CI 7.07-157.07), lichen planus (OR 6.30, 95% CI 4.67-8.51), vitiligo (OR 4.28, 95% CI 2.39-7.67), alopecia areata (OR 3.89, 95% CI 2.14-7.06) and psoriasis (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.13-3.39). LS was also associated with autoimmune thyroid (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.35-2.88) and gastrointestinal diseases such as coeliac disease (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.02-1.64) and Crohn's disease (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.19-1.98). However, no significant association was found with systemic lupus erythematosus (OR 1.29, 95% CI 0.85-1.95), type 1 diabetes mellitus (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.40-1.86), ulcerative colitis (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.58-1.70), rheumatoid arthritis (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.55-1.66) and pernicious anaemia (OR 2.57, 95% CI 0.22-30.28).

Conclusions: LS is associated with cutaneous autoimmune diseases as well as autoimmune thyroid and gastrointestinal disorders. This association underscores the need for screening, multidisciplinary care and long-term monitoring to provide optimal care.

Keywords: autoimmune diseases; lichen sclerosus; meta‐analysis; risk; systematic review.