Lichen planus is a condition associated with alteration of the immune function which affects the skin, oral mucosa, genital mucosa and nails. The reason for the alteration in the immune function is not known in most of the cases.
Lichen planus is considered to be rare in children. However, it is not uncommon in India and Middle East. A study from India reported incidence of 11% of all lichen planus cases.
Lichen planus is not hereditary, but occurrence of lichen planus in families and twins indicate that some genetic factors will play a role in the cause of Lichen planus.
The exact cause is not known. It is considered to occur in certain genetically predisposed individuals where they encountered by certain triggers that stimulate the immune system resulting in lichen planus. Most common reported triggers include viral infections, vaccines, drugs, dental fillings, metal implants, and in most cases that triggers are unknown.
Lichen planus is characterised by purple to skin coloured raised eruptions which are associated with itching. The eruption occurs of the front of the wrist, ankles, legs, arms, and trunk. There can be white lesions in the oral mucosa or the oral mucosa can be red and associated with burning sensation and intolerance to spicy food. Some children have thinning of nails which can become brittle and break resulting in loss of nails. Skin eruptions can occur at size of trauma due to scratching. Lichen planus can be diagnosed like this clinically.
The diagnosis is clinical and most cases, some patients may need skin or oral mucosal biopsy to confirm the diagnosis
Lichen planus can be associated with viral infections like hepatitis C, which may need to be tested for.
There are many treatment options for Lichen Planus. Limited lesions can be treated with steroid cream. Applications of other non steroid ointments is also tried. For wide spread Lichen planus, oral steroids are useful. Phototherapy is used in moderate to severe form of Lichen planus. Other medications that are found to be useful are dapsone, acetate and hydroxychloroquine in case of oral Lichen Planus, they should take bland non-spicy soft foods. Application of steroid gargle can be used for oral Lichen Planus. A dermatologist should be consulted for the appropriate treatment of this condition.
In majority of people, Lichen planus subsides spontaneously in one to two years. Long-term prognosis of childhood lichen planus is not clearly established. However, oral Lichen Planus can persist for a long time. Residual pigmentation following resolution of Lichen Planus can take a very long time to subside as it is a deeper pigmentation.
Disclaimer: This article is only for general patient information and is not intended for self medication. There is no legal liability of IADVL arising out of any adverse consequence to the patient. Subsequent to its use for self treatment of the disease images adjust for the depiction of the condition and is not to be used for any other purpose.
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