Lichen Planus

About one percent of the population is affected by lichen planus (LP). It is a disease that affects the skin (Read about "Skin") and the mouth. The cause of LP is unknown. Some suspect that the condition is related to an immune system reaction. (Read about "The Immune System")

LP shows up as flat topped bumps that are reddish-purple. Most of the time they show up on the wrists and the ankles, but they can show up anywhere on the body. The rash from LP can be extremely itchy. (Read about "Skin Rash") The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says there is no known cure for LP so most treatments involve dealing with the itchiness that occurs.

Treatment options include:

• phototherapy, using UV light
• antihistamines
• topical corticosteroids
• topical immune-modulating medication

For severe cases, oral corticosteroids may be used. There is a warning concerning oral corticosteroids however. The National Institutes of Health say anyone using corticosteroids should talk to their doctors about taking supplemental calcium and vitamin D to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. (Read about "Calcium" "Vitamins & Minerals" "Osteoporosis")

If LP is triggered by things such as drugs or chemicals, it is important to avoid exposure to those triggers. The bumps will usually disappear within a couple of years, although they can recur later on.

Related Information:

    Skin Care