Lichen planus Flashcards
Define lichen planus.
Lichen planus (LP) is a pruritic, chronic inflammatory dermatosis resulting from keratinocyte apoptosis that affects the skin, mucous membranes, genitalia, scalp (lichen planopilaris), and nails.
What is the aetiology of lichen planus?
There are no proven causes, but it is thought that autoimmunity is involved.
What are risk factors for lichen planus?
Hepatitis C
-308 G/A polymorphism in TNF-alpha gene
Hepatitis B vaccination
Influenza vaccination
Psychosocial stress
Oral allergens
Summarise the epidemiology of lichen planus.
Prevalence <1%
What are signs and symptoms of lichen planus?
Pruritus
Violaceous, flat-topped papules or plaques
Wickham’s striae
Mucosal erosions and lacy white network
What investigations should be performed for lichen planus?
CLINICAL DIAGNOSIS
Histopathology
Hepatitis C (HCV) screen
Immunofluorescence
What is the management for lichen planus?
Topical corticosteroid
Antihistamine
What are complications associated with lichen planus?
Scarring alopecia
quamous cell carcinoma (in erosive mucosal disease)
What is the prognosis for lichen planus?
This chronic condition may remain unresponsive to treatment or may recur once treatments are discontinued. For these patients, symptom relief is important. Many of the treatment options have undesirable side effects that require consideration by practitioners and patients.
