Lichen planus is an unpleasant and hard to treat disorder that may cause painful rashes on the skin or sores inside the mouth. According to Medline Plus, a website of the National Institutes of Health, lichen planus commonly affects middle-aged adults and is less common in children. Symptoms of lichen planus should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Description
Lichen planus is a disorder that is characterized by an inflammation of the skin or of the mucous membranes in the mouth and genitals. A rash can also appear on the scalp, lower back, nails and neck. Lichen planus is not contagious but it is a very persistent disorder that can last for many years. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the precise cause of lichen planus is not known. It may be related to an allergic reaction or malfunction of the immune system.
Skin Symptoms
There are many symptoms of lichen planus that affect the skin. Lichen planus on the skin is an itchy rash that generally affects the insides of the wrists, forearms and ankles, reports the Mayo Clinic. Other skin symptoms associated with lichen planus include rows of flat-headed bumps. These bumps may differ in color; purple to pink to red. Itching with affected areas of lichen planus may become severe. When the scalp is involved, symptoms may include redness, irritation, thinning hair and hair loss.
Mouth Symptoms
Symptoms of lichen planus in the mouth can include tender or painful lesions that are usually found on the sides of the tongue or on the inside of the cheek. Some lesions are occasionally located under the gums, according to Medline Plus. The lesions can gradually increase in size and eventually become painful ulcers. Other common symptoms may include a dry mouth and a metallic taste or a blunted sensation in tasting.
Causes and Risk
At this time, there is no definite cause of lichen planus but certain factors make you more likely to develop the disease than others, says the Mayo Clinic. The most common risks include being middle-aged and a woman. The University of Maryland Medical Center points out that certain allergic reactions to chemicals may cause lichen planus. These chemicals and substances can include, medications, dyes, antibiotics and diuretics. A hepatitis C viral infection or being diagnosed with cirrhosis can make you more likely to develop lichen planus.
Test and Treatments
In order to diagnose lichen planus, a punch biopsy may be ordered from your doctor. He will remove a part of the infected area and confirm whether or not lichen planus is present. There is no cure for lichen planus and treatment is centered on lessening the severity of symptoms. Treatment may include antihistamines to control itching, phototherapy, topical medications and corticosteroid pills, according to the Mayo Clinic.
