Lichen Simplex Chronicus

Question 1

Lichen Simplex Chronicus

Clinical Feature. Symp. Sites. Comorbidity

Answer 1

• well-defined plaque(s) of lichenified skin with increased skin markings ± excoriations
• common sites: neck, scalp, lower extremities, urogenital area
• often seen in patients with atopy

Question 2

Lichen Simplex Chronicus

Pathophysiology

Answer 2

• skin hyperexcitable to itch, continued rubbing/scratching of skin results
• eventually lichenification occurs

Question 3

Lichen Simplex Chronicus

Investigations

Answer 3

if patient has generalized pruritus, rule out systemic cause: CBC with differential count, transaminases,
bilirubin, renal and thyroid function tests, TSH, glucose, SPEP
• CXR if lymphoma suspected

Question 4

Lichen Simplex Chronicus

Management

Answer 4

antipruritics (e.g. antihistamines, topical or intralesional glucocorticoids, Unna boot)