Lichen Planus

What is Lichen Planus?

Lichen planus is a common skin disease that can develop on one or several parts of the body, including the skin, nails, and mucosa. This skin condition is often chronic, and can be localized or generalized, causing significant stress for the patient. When lichen planus appears on the nails, it may cause ridges or grooves, splitting or thinning, or even loss of the nails, which can be temporary or permanent.

How Does Lichen Planus Affect the Skin?

Lichen planus often presents on the skin as extremely itchy dull red minimally scaly bumps. Lichen planus can also appear on the scalp and cause redness, irritation, tiny bumps, hair thinning, including patches of hair loss, and scarring. Lichen planus can affect the mucosa of the mouth or genitalia. In addition to being difficult to diagnose, it can be very painful for the patient if not treated properly.

Treatment Options

An early consultation with a dermatologist can be of great benefit for anyone with this condition. Initiating early and appropriate therapy can be achieved with an early consultation.