Lichen Flashcards
What is lichen planus?
Chronic inflammatory immune mediated disease affecting skin, nails, hair and mucous membranes
What causes lichen planus?
Infection- hepatitis, herpes, VZV
Drugs- antihypertensives, antimalarials
Stress and anxiety
What are the features of lichen planus?
Violaceous (purple) flat topped raised papules
White lacy lines overlying
Itchy
What are the common sites for lichen planus?
Doral hands, flexural wrists and forearms
Trunk
Anterior legs
Oral mucosa in 50%= white lace pattern
What is the management of lichen planus?
Topical steroids
What is lichen simplex chronicus?
Response of skin to repeated scratching
What is lichen simplex chronicus associated with?
Eczema
Anxiety and depression
What are the features of lichen simplex chronicus?
Thick, leathery, darkened skin
Pruritus
What is the management of lichen simplex chronicus?
Topical emollient and steroid
Antihistamines
What is lichen sclerosus?
Common chronic autoimmune skin condition
Where is lichen sclerosus normally seen?
Genitals and perianal area
What is the presentation of lichen sclerosus?
White crinkled or thickened patches of skin that tend to scar
Can be very itchy and sore
What is the management of lichen sclerosus?
Topical steroids
Topical calcineurin inhibitors e.g. tacrolimus
Severe/acute= systemic steroids/retinoids, methotrexate, cyclosporin
What is a complication of lichen sclerosus?
SCC at sites
