Lichen planus is a condition of the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes. This condition causes swelling, irritation, and bumps on the skin. The rash related to this skin condition is very recognizable, particularly in the mucous membranes. The rash can be painful in some cases, or it might cause severe itching. The location of the rash can have a sizable impact on the level of discomfort that you experience related to this condition.
The symptoms of lichen planus are:
Lichen Planus is caused by an immune system response where the cells of the skin or the mucous membranes are destroyed. Doctors are not sure why this condition occurs. Lichen planus is not contagious, so you cannot pass it on to other people.
Lichen planus can also be triggered by the following:
Anyone can get lichen planus, but is it more common in middle-aged adults, but people of all ages can contract the condition. Oral lichen planus is most common in middle-aged women.
The diagnosis of this condition requires taking a full medical history. Once this has been done, your doctor might test you for hepatitis C since this can trigger the condition. Allergy tests might need to be done to ensure an allergic reaction is not the cause since it can look like lichen planus. Biopsies of the skin or mucous membranes might be needed to help diagnose this condition as well.
Treatment of lichen planus is often not necessary. This condition typically resolves on its own. Supportive care may be necessary to treat pain and other symptoms. You might be given antihistamines to help with the rash related to this condition, and your doctor might also give you corticosteroids to help with swelling and pain.
Anti-infection drugs can be given to those who are dealing with recurring outbreaks of this condition. Some people also benefit from retinoids or light therapy. Triggers will also need to be managed, and you will want to avoid anything that has caused an outbreak in the past.
Prevention of this condition is not usually possible. You will probably be directed by your doctor to stop smoking and to avoid alcohol if you are worried about getting lichen planus since both of these substances can have an impact on your immune system health. You should also try to avoid injuries to the skin. If you tend to get the rash inside your mouth or on other mucous membranes, you will also want to take care to avoid irritants to these parts of the body.