Dr Pranjal Shamsher, multi-therapy consultant talks about the symptoms of lichen planus and the treatment approach
What is lichen planus?
Lichen planus is a skin eruption which is very itchy. The eruptions are usually pink to purple in colour and flat topped. As the name suggests, they resemble a flat tree moss — Lichen refers to tree moss and Planus is Latin for flat. The most common areas are the lower legs which often look severely wounded due to violent scratching by the patients. Apart from the legs, the eruptions are also seen on the forearms, inner aspect of the wrist, lower legs, ankles and waist. However, in few cases the lesions can cover almost the entire body skin.
What causes lichen planus?
It’s caused by an abnormal reaction of the body’s immune system which mistakes the skins own cells as foreign and attacks them. It’s known to be provoked by a viral infection or a drug. The onset of lichen planus can be sudden or gradual. The first attack may last for weeks and recurrences may happen for years.
Can it cause any complications?
During the active stage, itching can be intense and constant. In fact, itching is the most distressing symptom in lichen planus. New lesions may appear while older ones are clearing. As the eruptions clear, they leave behind blackish pigmentation which may take a long time to heal. This is the second most distressing factor for patients. In some cases, the eruptions tend to become thick, hard and rock solid, almost resembling cement crusts. This can cause a lot of embarrassment to patients especially if they occur on exposed areas of the skin.
What is the approach to treat this condition?
Relief from itching and improvement in the appearance of the skin are the most important parameters of treatment. Mild cases may respond to external applications alone, severe cases with newer lesions may need internal medication. Change in skin care, diet and lifestyle modification may be required for a few patients suffering from severe and recurring form of lichen planus.
Dr Pranjal Shamsher can be contacted at Indiranagar on 25201175 to 78, at Jayanagar on 26639935 to 38 and at Malleswaram on 23568290 to 93.
Courtesy: The Times of India
