Muhammad Ali

Breaking Down Lichen Planus: What You Need to Know.





What is Lichen Planus?

Lichen Planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the skin, nails, hair, and mucous membranes. It is characterized by purplish, itchy, flat bumps. The exact cause of LP is not known, but it is believed to be due to an autoimmune reaction.

Symptoms of Lichen Planus

The symptoms of LP can vary depending on the part of the body affected. Common symptoms include:

  • Skin: Purplish-colored lesions or bumps with flat tops, often on the inner forearms, wrists, or ankles.
  • Mouth: Red, swollen patches, white lacy patches, sores, and sometimes peeling and blistering. These lesions may cause a burning sensation or pain, irritation while brushing teeth, swelling in the gums, and discomfort while swallowing, speaking, and chewing.
  • Nails: LP can cause brittle or split nails.
  • Scalp: LP may cause hair loss.

Lichen Planus (LP)




Effects of Lichen Planus

If untreated for a prolonged period, LP may lead to complications such as:

  • Pain while eating and drinking
  • Weight loss
  • Nutritional deficiency due to poor food intake
  • Bacterial and yeast infections
  • Tissue scarring
  • Increased risk of oral cancer

Treatment for Lichen Planus

While LP cannot be cured, treatment helps to manage the symptoms. Treatment options include:

  • Corticosteroid creams: Such as Clobetasol propionate, which reduces inflammation and redness.
  • Immunosuppressants: Drugs like Cyclosporine that reduce immune response may be prescribed.
  • Oral anti-infections drugs: Other oral medicines used for LP are the antimalarial hydroxychloroquine and the antibiotic metronidazole.
  • Immune response medicines: For more-severe symptoms, drugs that change the body’s immune response may be used.
  • Antihistamines: An antihistamine medicine taken by mouth might ease the itchy skin caused by LP.
  • Light therapy: Light therapy may help clear up LP affecting the skin.
  • Retinoids: A retinoid medicine taken by mouth or applied to the skin.

Self Care for Lichen Planus

Self-care measures can also help manage the symptoms of LP. These include:

  • Avoid spicy foods and acidic causing foods, such as citrus fruit juice, because they can irritate oral LP.
  • Avoid sharp food, such as crusty bread.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol, particularly spirits.
  • Avoid using mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
  • Keep the mouth as clean as possible.
  • Clean the teeth using a mild toothpaste that does not include sodium lauryl sulfate (a foaming agent).

Final Conclusion:

Lichen Planus is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect various parts of the body. While it cannot be cured, its symptoms can be managed with appropriate treatment and self-care measures. If you suspect you have LP, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan