Signs and Symptoms of Lichen Planus

Lichen planus is a fairly common autoimmune skin condition in which antibodies attack the skin, mucous membranes, hair and nails.  Lichen refers to the appearance of the rash that appears on the skin or in the mouth.  Lichen planus occurs most often in middle-aged adults, affecting men and women equally.  The most common locations are the skin and inside the mouth.  We have put together a list of common signs and symptoms of lichen planus below.

Also, we have information on diagnosis, helpful books and valuable resources for patients.

The Most Common Signs and Symptoms of Lichen Planus include:

• Itchy, flat bumps that are reddish- purple in color that can appear anywhere on the body
• White, lacy appearance of the bumps, especially on the wrists
• Darker, thicker patches on the shins
• Patches of fine white lines and dots in the mouth

Lichen planus usually does not occur in children.  The onset of lichen planus can be sudden or gradual.  The first attack may last for weeks or months, and the rash can disappear and re-occur again after a number of years.

Diagnosis of Lichen Planus

Lichen planus on the skin is fairly simple to diagnose, and most physicians make a diagnosis just by observing the skin.  Sometimes a skin biopsy is done to help confirm the diagnosis. Lichen planus in the mouth is more difficult to diagnose, as is often confused with canker sores, candidiasis, and oral cancer.  A biopsy can help confirm a diagnosis of oral lichen planus.

Books For People With Signs and Symptoms of Lichen Planus

Lichen Planus Resources

General Patient Resources

• American Academy of Dermatology

Information on lichen planus for dermatologists, for the public and for the media.

http://www.aad.org/skin-conditions/dermatology-a-to-z/lichen-planus

• American Skin Association

A skin resource center for researchers, adults and kids.

http://www.americanskin.org/resource/lichen.php

• Cure Zone

Lichen planus support forum.

http://curezone.com/forums/f.asp?f=676

• MD Junction

A community of patients, family members and friends dedicated to dealing with lichen planus.

http://www.mdjunction.com/forums/lichen-planus-discussions

• Family Doctor . org

Questions and answers about lichen planus.

http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/skin/disorders/600.html

Medical Resources

• Mayo Clinic

Comprehensive overview covers symptoms, treatments of disorder affecting skin or mucous membranes.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/lichen-planus/DS00782

• Pub Med Health

Discusses causes, sym,ptoms, risk factors, treatment, prognosis and complications.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001870/