Lichen Planus: An Overview
Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes. It is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues.
Causes of Lichen Planus
The exact cause of lichen planus is unknown, but it's believed to be related to an autoimmune response. It can be triggered or worsened by various factors.
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Viral Infections
Hepatitis C is a known trigger for lichen planus.
2
Medications
Certain medications like those for high blood pressure, heart disease, and arthritis can contribute.
3
Allergens
Dental fillings and dyes can sometimes trigger lichen planus.
4
Stress and Skin Injury
Stress or injury to the skin can also play a role.
Symptoms of Lichen Planus
Lichen planus symptoms can vary depending on the affected area.
Skin
Small, flat-topped, reddish-purple bumps often cause itching.
Mouth
White, lacy patches or painful sores on the inner cheeks, gums, or tongue are common.
Scalp
Hair loss and scarring in affected areas can occur.
Symptoms of Lichen Planus (Continued)
Lichen planus can also affect other parts of the body.
Nails
Thinning, ridging, or even loss of nails can occur.
Genitals
Itching and discomfort with painful lesions can appear in the genital area.
Ears and Eyes
Rarely, lichen planus can affect the ears or eyes.
Transmission of Lichen Planus
Lichen planus is not contagious. It is an autoimmune disorder and cannot be spread through contact.
Not Contagious
Lichen planus is not spread through contact like an infection.
Autoimmune Disorder
It results from the immune system attacking the body's own tissues.
No Infection
It is not caused by a virus or bacteria that can be transmitted.
Treatment of Lichen Planus
There is no cure for lichen planus, but treatment aims to manage symptoms.
Topical Corticosteroids
These reduce inflammation and itching.
Oral Corticosteroids
Used for severe cases, these reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Antihistamines
These relieve itching.
Light Therapy
Used for widespread cases, this involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light.
Treatment of Lichen Planus (Continued)
Treatment for lichen planus can also include other options.
Retinoids
These are medications that can be applied to the skin or taken orally.
Immune Response Medications
These suppress the immune system and are used in resistant cases.
Oral Care
Medicated mouthwashes and good dental hygiene are important for managing oral lichen planus.
Prognosis of Lichen Planus
Lichen planus can last for months or years, with flare-ups and remissions. While it can be managed with treatment, complications such as scarring can occur in some cases.
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Management
Lichen planus can be managed with treatment.
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Complications
Some cases can lead to complications like scarring.
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Prognosis
Lichen planus can last for months or years.
