Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory disease that impacts the skin and may also involve mucous membranes, hair, and nails. Though it is not fatal, the disease lichen planus can greatly affect the patient’s quality of life. It is important to know about this disease’s symptoms, especially the pigmentary variant lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP), and the available treatment options.
What is Lichen Planus?
Lichen planus is an autoimmune disease characterized by the body’s immune system attacking its own tissues. This leads to lichen planus symptoms such as itching and the development of purplish and raised bumps on the skin. The exact cause is still unknown, but stress, some medications, and infections are known to cause flare-ups. Genetics might also be involved in some cases.
Key Lichen Planus Symptoms
It is important to identify the lichen planus symptoms so that early treatment can be initiated. The most common signs include:
- Itchy Rash:
The first sign of the disease is a rash, which may appear like flat-topped, violaceous bumps that may be pruritic. These bumps are usually found on the wrists, ankles, and lower back. - Mucosal Lesions:
The disease lichen planus can also affect mucous membranes and cause painful ulcers or white patches in the mouth, genitals, or esophagus. - Nail Changes:
The disease may result in nails becoming brittle, splitting, or developing ridges and in the worst case, the nails may even fall off. - Scalp Involvement:
In the scalp, lichen planus may result in scarring and therefore hair loss may be permanent. - Pigmentation Issues:
One major worry that most people have is the development of dark patches on the skin, especially in cases of lichen planus pigmentosus, which is common among people with dark skin tone. This variant is characterized by brown or grayish patches and can be very worrying because of the cosmetic effects it has.
Managing Lichen Planus Pigmentosus
In lichen planus therapy, paying attention to general skin health is crucial. Lichen planus pigmentosus needs special approaches to treatment due to the pigmentary impact of the disease. They may be long-lasting and may appear in areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun most of the time. Managing pigmentation involves:
Sun Protection:
It is very important to avoid further exposure to UV light to prevent the skin from getting darker. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen use can protect your skin from the dangerous rays of the sun.
Skin Care Products:
It is useful to include products that can reduce the dark pigmentation of the skin. Applying a face serum that contains vitamin C or niacinamide can help in the process of lightening the skin and evening out the skin tone.
Topical Treatments:
Hydroquinone or retinoids may be prescribed by a dermatologist in the form of creams, which is to be applied on the skin to reduce pigmentation and enhance the skin complexion.
Effective Lichen Planus Therapy
Lichen planus therapy and treatment are aimed at relieving symptoms and controlling the disease. Treatment options may include:
Topical Steroids:
Topical steroids such as creams or ointments are used in the management of inflammation and itching. They can be used in the treatment of skin lesions and can also reduce pain.
Oral Medications:
In more serious cases, oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressive medications may be prescribed. These medications help to reduce the inflammation caused as a response of the immune system.
Phototherapy:
Severe cases may be treated with ultraviolet light therapy. It helps by reducing the rate of the immune response in the skin, which is otherwise overactive.
Moisturizers:
The skin has to be moisturized at all times. Using moisturizer is essential for people with dry and itchy skin, and this can be useful when treating lichen planus.
Conclusion
Disease lichen planus can be difficult to treat, however, knowing the signs, such as in case of lichen planus pigmentosus, and finding the best lichen planus therapy can greatly enhance the patient’s well-being. Through proper skin health measures such as the use of the right products and frequent moisturizing can alleviate the condition. If you have lichen planus symptoms or have concerns regarding pigmentation, you should see a dermatologist for further treatment and management.
