Lichen planus, Lichen planus, treatment, Lichen planus Symptoms, Causes of Lichen planus.

Lichen planus

Lichen planus is an uncommon skin disorder, of unknown origin. It is characterized by shiny, red -purple flat topped, many sided bumps on the wrist, legs, torso, genitals, lips. It can also affect the scalp and cause permanent hair loss.

Generally believed to be an allergic or autoimmune disorder (one in which the person produces antibodies against his own tissues). This abnormal immune response may be caused due to a viral infection. Lichen planus develops slowly and usually goes away on its own, but in some people it may last for many years.

Causes:-

The disorder has been known to develop after exposure to potential allergens such as:medications, dyes, metals and other chemical substances.
Symptoms increase with emotional stress, possibly because of changes in immune system during stress. Stress is not a causative agent, but a worsening factor.
At times because of a virus called Hepatitis C.

Lichen planus occurs at or after middle age. Children are usually not affected by it. The fairer sex is at higher risk as compared to men.

Symptoms:-

Symptoms of lichen planus include:

flat, purplish, pimple-like bumps mostly on the wrists, lower back and sometimes the genitals
hyperpigmentation in the affected skin.
hair loss
mild to severe itching at the infected spot
mouth usually becomes dry and you get a metallic like taste
painful sores in the mouth and genitals
possibility of developing blisters.

The major point of distinction of lichen planus from other common rashes is its colour -- lilac or violet. Therefore, it is often termed "violaceous."

Treatment:-

There is no cure for lichen planus.

Most of the time, the bumps go away without any treatment after about a year. However, treatment can make your skin look better.
The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms and speed healing of the skin lesions.
Treatments include:-
Antihistamines to reduce discomfort
Topical or oral steroids prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching.
Topical Vitamin A creams and other ointments to reduce itching and inflammation and aid healing.
Ultraviolet light therapy may be beneficial in some cases.

The skin eruptions of lichen planus may clear up completely with treatment. Recurrence of lichen planus does occur if treatment left in between.

Side effects of certain medications may include drowsiness and allergic reactions. Long-term use of oral steroids can lower resistance to the infection.

How to prevent:-

No preventive measures are known till date. That is why, it has been given the name of curious disease. Avoiding certain chemicals and medications may reduce flare-ups.

A word of caution:-