What is Lichen Planus?

Lichen Planus
Lichen Planus. Vacuolar and lichenoides interface dermatitis with pigmentary incontinence,compatible with lichen planus. Arrows: basal layer colliquation (green),melanophages (orange), hyperkeratosis (red), wedge hypergranulosis (blue). Linear lichen planus in children--case report: Horowitz MR, Vidal Mde L, Resende MO, Teixeira MA, Cavalcanti SM, Alencar ER - Anais brasileiros de dermatologia (2013 Nov-Dec). Not altered. CC.

Lichen planus is a disorder of the skin and mucous membrane characterized by pruritic, purple, polygonal papules.

What is the Pathology of Lichen Planus?

The pathology of lichen planus is:

-Etiology: The cause of lichen planus is idiopathic, immunologically mediated.

-Genes involved: None.

-Pathogenesis: The sequence of events that lead to lichen planus is unknown.

-Morphology: The morphology associated with lichen planus shows a flat-topped pink-purple, polygonal papule.

-Histology: The histology associated with lichen planus shows a bandlike infiltrate of lymphocytes at the dermo-epidermal junction.

How does Lichen Planus Present? 

Patients with lichen planus typically have no gender prevalence present at an age range of 30 to 60 years. The symptoms, features, and clinical findings associated with lichen planus include pruritus, oral lesions, lesions on flexural surfaces.

How is Lichen Planus Diagnosed? 

Lichen planus is diagnosed through the clinical presentation, laboratory studies- direct immunofluorescence study reveals globular deposits of IgM and biopsy.

How is Lichen Planus Treated? 

Lichen planus is treated through medical care for symptoms, fluorinated topical steroids, antimicrobial.

What is the Prognosis of Lichen Planus?

The prognosis of lichen planus is good most symptoms regress in 2 years period.