Unraveling the Hormone and Microbiome Puzzle in Lichen Sclerosus with Dr. Melissa Mauskar

Published 2024-03-01
Hey friends! I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Dr. Melissa Mauskar, a true rockstar in the world of vulvar health research. She illuminated some fascinating new findings about the hormone and microbiome landscapes in lichen sclerosus.

I walked away feeling so hopeful about how this work might improve patient care down the road! 🙌 Dr. Mauskar broke down the key takeaways in an accessible way - no need for a medical degree to follow along!

Whether you have lichen sclerosus yourself or treat patients, I think you'll find this chat insightful.

A few highlights that caught my ear:
- The role of progesterone and other hormones in LS skin
- How treatment impacts microbiome diversity
- Exciting areas for future research.

Dr. Mauskar's passion for patient-centered care and collaboration across specialties to move the needle is inspiring. She helped me understand how this study, while small, contributes an important puzzle piece to better understanding and treating this chronic condition.

Let me know what intrigued or surprised you! I always love hearing your experiences and thoughts. And if you appreciate Dr. Mauskar and other clinicians advancing vulvar health, show some love in the comments! ❤️

In this episode, you will be able to:

Explore the intricate connection between hormonal balance and lichen sclerosus for a holistic understanding.

Uncover the role of the microbiome in lichen sclerosus and its impact on treatment approaches.

Create personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs for more effective management of lichen sclerosus.

Gain insights into providing comprehensive care for vulvar health, enhancing patient outcomes.

Discover the benefits of collaboration in advancing research and care for vulvar health.

My special guest is Dr. Melissa Mauskar

Dr. Melissa Mauskar,  an Associate Professor in the Department of Dermatology and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UT Southwestern Medical Center, is not your typical expert. She's a trailblazer in the field, serving on the board of the newly founded Vulvar Dermatoses Research Consortium and as the secretary general for the  North American branch of the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease.

With a deep commitment to patient care and a particular focus on lichen sclerosus, Dr. Mauskar's latest research delves into this condition's hormonal and microbiome aspects. Her dedication and expertise in unraveling the complexities of lichen sclerosus make her a true star in the field.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:12 - Introduction to Lichen Sclerosis Podcast

00:02:44 - Research Project Background

00:09:36 - Study Methodology and Findings

00:12:42 - Potential Impact and Future Research

00:15:05 - Skin Hormone Levels and Implications

00:17:02 - Significance of Study Results

00:18:01 - Understanding Microbiome

00:20:35 - Treatment Approach and Microbiome

00:24:33 - Role of Yeast in Lichen Sclerosis

00:27:30 - Future Research and Hormonal Influences

00:33:30 - Recognition of Healthcare Providers

00:34:06 - Importance of Care

00:34:52 - Momentum in Menopause Research

00:35:43 - Need for Specialized Healthcare

00:36:31 - Conclusion and Call to Action

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

Link to the abstract for the study mentioned in the podcast: This will provide detailed information about the study conducted by Dr. Mauskar and her team, allowing you to delve deeper into the findings and implications. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38368928/

Dr. Mauskar's Instagram profile: Follow Dr. Mauskar on Instagram to stay updated on her work, research, and insights in the field of dermatology and women's health. www.instagram.com/melissamauskarmd/

Contact Dr. Mauskar at UT Southwestern Medical Center: If you are in the UT Southwestern area and in need of a dermatologist, reach out to Dr. Mauskar for expert care and consultation. utswmed.org/doctors/melissa-mauskar/

Connect with me here:

linkedin.com/in/lssn

www.facebook.com/lichensclerosussupportnetwork

www.instagram.com/lichensclerosussupportnetwork/

lssupportnetwork.org/

youtube.com/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQXU-…

All Comments (6)
  • Really excellent time-stamp / bookmarking in the notes below the description. Also thank you for putting a link to her study in the notes!
  • @sandymenzel5355
    As a 77yr old post menopausal women who in Jan 2020 had TAH, BSO w/senteil node removal G3EEC MSI -H. M1HL POS, THIS AWESOME INFORMATION - but what is thus interesal labial focus spelling isn't right. THANKS
  • @sandymenzel5355
    I found the answer it is the indentation between the labia majora and labia minora
  • @pamwilliams9344
    Would love to understand if any connection to ER/PR breast cancer.