Lichen Planus
Lichen planus is a chronic disease in which there is an itchy, swollen rash on the skin or in the mouth and presents itself in the form of papules, lesions or rashes.
The exact cause of lichen planus is unknown. Some lichen planus type rashes occur as allergic reactions to medications for high blood pressure, heart disease and arthritis. Lichen planus can be a complication of chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Lichen planus generally affects middle-aged adults.
Section of Skin with Lichen Planus
Lichen Planus Symptoms
The typical rash of lichen planus is well-defined pruritic, planar, purple, polygonal papules. The commonly affected sites are near the wrist and the ankle. The rash tends to heal with prominent blue-black or brownish discoloration that persists for a long time.
Lichen Planus Treatment
The goal of lichen planus treatment is to reduce your symptoms and hasten healing of the skin lesions.
Treatments may include:
- Antihistamines
- Immune-suppressing medications, such as cyclosporine (in severe cases)
- Lidocaine mouth washes - to numb the area temporarily and make eating more comfortable (for mouth lesions)
- Topical corticosteroids (such as clobetasol) or oral corticosteroids (such as prednisone) - to reduce inflammation and suppress immune responses. Corticosteroids may be injected directly into a lesion.
- Topical retinoic acid cream (a form of vitamin A) and other ointments or creams - to reduce itching and inflammation and aid healing
- Ultraviolet light therapy may be helpful in some cases
© 2009 Lichen Planus
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