There are many skin conditions that are caused by an abnormal immune system response, resulting in lesions on the skin as the body attacks itself. One of these conditions is lichen planus, which is an inflammatory skin disease. Lichen planus can result in lesions appearing on the skin or mucus membranes that can last for months or years. At MJR Dermatology, we provide effective lichen planus treatment plans at our medical center in Lawrenceville, GA.
Symptoms and Causes of Lichen Planus
Lichen planus is usually triggered by an event, but it is not understood why this occurs. Medications, NSAIDs, vaccines, allergic reactions and hepatitis C infections are the most common triggers of lichen planus. For those that take medications or NSAIDs that cause these skin growths, it may be necessary to change medications to stop the lichen planus from attacking the skin.
Lichen planus can form on the skin or mucus membranes in the mouth or genitals. Some of the symptoms include:
- Purplish, flat lesions on the skin, usually the wrist, forearm or ankle area
- Lesions may blister, ooze and crust over
- Itching from mild to severe
- Scalp lesions that can result in hair loss
- Painful sores in the mouth or on labia or inside the vagina
- White sores in the mouth
Lichen planus usually will resolve on its own, but it can take months or longer. Some cases can cause loss or hair or changes in scalp color, as well as scarring. Lichen planus inside the mouth or vagina can be very painful, impacting eating and sexual activity.
Relief from Lichen Planus
If you have a severe case of lichen planus, treatment may be your best option to resolve this condition. Topical medications are usually the first course of treatment to relieve itching. If topical corticosteroid is not effective, oral or injection treatment may be recommended. Other treatments can include immune system suppressive medications, light therapy, anti-infection medications and antihistamines.
To learn more about treatment plans for lichen planus, come see our team at MJR Dermatology. Call our medical center in the North Atlanta, GA, area to schedule an appointment with our board certified dermatologist, Dr. Matthew Reschly, for diagnosis and treatment of lichen planus.