Lichen Planus Treatment In Vizag - Visakhpatnam

Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory condition causing itchy, purple, flat-topped bumps on the skin (wrists, ankles, lower back) and white, lacy patches (Wickham's striae) or sores in the mouth, nails, or genitals, stemming from the immune system attacking skin/mucous membranes. While the exact cause is unknown, it involves T-cells attacking skin proteins, and treatments focus on managing symptoms with topical steroids or systemic medications for severe cases, though mild forms may resolve on their own.

Signs and Symptoms
Skin: Itchy, purplish, polygonal bumps, often on inner wrists, ankles, or lower back, that can form scaly plaques.
Mouth (Oral LP): Lacy white patches (Wickham's striae) or painful red sores/erosions.
Nails: Thinning, grooves, ridges, darkening, or loss of nails.
Genitals: Sores or irritation.
Hair: Scalp involvement can cause hair loss.
Causes & Triggers
Immune Response: The body's T-cells mistakenly attack skin and mucous membrane cells.
Unknown Triggers: The specific trigger for this immune response is unknown, but it's linked to genetics and stress.
Associated Factors: Sometimes linked to Hepatitis C infection or reactions to certain medications/chemicals.
Types of Lichen Planus
Reticular: Lacy white patches in the mouth (most common, often no symptoms).
Erosive: Red, painful sores in the mouth or genitals (more severe).
Inverse: In skin folds (armpits, groin).
Hypertrophic: Thickened, raised, itchy plaques.
Treatment & Management
Mild Cases: Often need no treatment, but moisturizers and antihistamines help itching.
Moderate to Severe: Topical corticosteroids, phototherapy, or systemic drugs (corticosteroids, immunosuppressants).
Oral LP: Requires monitoring, especially erosive types, due to potential oral cancer risk.
Prognosis