A revolutionary fat transfer procedure is demonstrating promising results in the treatment of lichen sclerosus, a condition affecting thousands of women in the UK. The treatment, currently being trialled at the Royal Free Hospital, aims to alleviate pain, restore tissue health, and improve the quality of life for those affected.

Understanding Lichen Sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus impacts over 300,000 women in the UK, often remaining undiagnosed. This can lead to painful sexual intercourse and an increased risk of vulval cancer. Current treatments provide limited and often temporary relief.

A Novel Treatment Approach

Researchers at the Royal Free Hospital in London have pioneered a new approach: transferring fat tissue from areas like the stomach or thighs and injecting it into the vulva. This innovative technique aims to address the underlying tissue damage caused by the condition.

Promising Results from the PETALS Trial

Initial results from the PETALS trial are encouraging, with success reported in eight out of ten patients. The procedure has significantly reduced pain and helped patients regain a normal sex life.

Patient Story: Maria Tether-Jenkins

Maria Tether-Jenkins, a 53-year-old patient, has lived with lichen sclerosus since childhood. Diagnosed at 28, she found limited long-term relief from steroid creams and experienced complications during childbirth. She joined Professor Peter Butler’s PETALS trial in 2021 after discovering it through an online forum.

The procedure involved removing, purifying, and concentrating stem cells from her fat, then injecting it into the vulval tissue under general anesthesia. Maria reported minimal side effects and a remarkable recovery, experiencing almost complete symptom resolution.

How the Treatment Works

Lichen sclerosus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks vulval tissue. While rare in men, it can cause inflammation of the foreskin. Experts emphasize the condition is often underdiagnosed, frequently mistaken for other ailments like thrush or menopause.

Professor Butler theorizes that the stem cells in the transferred fat reverse scarring (fibrosis) in the vaginal tissue. However, he stresses that further research is necessary to fully understand the mechanism of action. The trial is expanding to other hospitals, but Professor Butler clarifies that this treatment is not a cure.

More information about the trial can be found at petalstrial.co.uk.