Lichen planus

Overview Of Lichen planus

Lichen planus is a chronic autoimmune and inflammatory condition that affects the skin, mucous membranes, nails, and scalp. On the skin, it appears as purplish, flat-topped, itchy bumps. In the mouth, it manifests as lacy white patches or painful sores. It can also affect the genital area and lead to hair or nail changes. The exact cause is unknown but is believed to involve an overactive immune response that mistakenly attacks healthy tissue.

Causes of Lichen planus

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• Immune System Dysregulation Lichen planus occurs due to the immune system attacking its own tissues, though the exact triggers remain unclear. This immune response causes inflammation and the appearance of lesions. -
• Triggering Factors Factors like infections (e.g., hepatitis C), allergens, or medications (e.g., NSAIDs, beta-blockers) can activate the condition in genetically susceptible individuals. -
• Genetic Susceptibility People with a family history of autoimmune diseases may have a higher risk of developing lichen planus.

Risk Factors of Lichen planus

• - Age and Gender: Common in middle-aged adults and slightly more prevalent in women. - Chronic Stress: Stress may worsen symptoms or act as a trigger. - Immune Disorders: Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can increase the likelihood of lichen planus. - Certain Medications: Drugs such as antimalarials, diuretics, or ACE inhibitors have been linked to triggering the condition.

Prevention of Lichen planus

• - Avoid Known Triggers: Consult healthcare providers to identify and avoid medications or substances that may worsen symptoms. - Stress Management: Techniques like yoga, meditation, or therapy to reduce stress levels. - Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups can help prevent complications in oral lichen planus. - Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding smoking or alcohol, which can irritate mucosal lesions.

Prognosis of Lichen planus

• Lichen planus is generally a self-limiting condition, with skin lesions resolving within months to a few years. However, oral or genital lesions may persist longer and require ongoing management. Some forms, such as lichen planopilaris, can cause permanent hair loss. Regular monitoring is recommended for oral lichen planus due to a slight increase in the risk of oral cancer.

Complications of Lichen planus

• - Chronic Pain and Discomfort: Persistent lesions may cause ongoing itching or pain, impacting quality of life. - Secondary Infections: Open sores are prone to bacterial or fungal infections. - Permanent Hair Loss: Scalp involvement can lead to irreversible scarring and bald patches. - Oral Cancer: Long-term erosive oral lichen planus carries a slight risk of progression to squamous cell carcinoma.

Related Diseases of Lichen planus

• - Psoriasis: A chronic inflammatory skin condition with red, scaly patches. - Eczema: Another inflammatory skin disorder, often causing intense itching and redness. - Lupus: An autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, joints, and organs. - Pemphigoid: An autoimmune blistering condition affecting the skin and mucous membranes.

Treatment of Lichen planus

- **Topical Corticosteroids**: Creams or ointments applied to reduce inflammation and control itching. - **Oral Corticosteroids**: Pills prescribed for severe or widespread cases to suppress immune activity. - **Antihistamines**: Help alleviate itching caused by skin lesions. - **Phototherapy**: Light-based therapy (e.g., UVB) to treat stubborn skin lesions. - **Retinoids**: Vitamin A-based medications (topical or oral) to manage lesions. - **Immune-Modulating Drugs**: Medications like tacrolimus for severe or unresponsive cases, especially for oral or genital lesions.