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Lichen Planus
Definition Lichen planus is a disorder of the skin and mucous membranes resulting in inflammation, itching, and distinctive skin lesions.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Lichen planus is an uncommon disorder involving a recurrent, itchy, inflammatory rash or lesion on the skin or in the mouth. The exact cause is unknown, but the disorder is likely to be related to an allergic or immune reaction.
The disorder has been known to develop after exposure to potential allergens such as medications, dyes, and other chemical substances. Symptoms are increased with emotional stress, possibly because of changes in immune system during stress.
Lichen planus generally occurs at or after middle age. It is less common in children. The initial attack may last for weeks to months, resolve, then recur for years.
Lichen planus may be associated with several other disorders, most notably Hepatitis C.
Chemicals or medications associated with development of lichen planus include gold (used to treat rheumatoid arthritis), antibiotics, arsenic, iodides, chloroquine, quinacrine, quinidine, antimony, phenothiazines, diuretics such as chlorothiazide, and many others.
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• Definition
• Lichen Planus Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Lichen Planus Symptoms & Signs
• Lichen Planus Diagnosis & Tests
• Lichen Planus Treatment
• Lichen Planus Prognosis
• Lichen Planus Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Acne
• Mouth Ulcers
• Oral Cancer
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
Tests & Exams
• Biopsy
• Skin Lesion Biopsy
Other Topics
• Hair Loss
• Itching
• Mouth Sores
• Nail Abnormalities
• Papule
• Rashes
• Taste - Impaired
• Ulcers
• Vesicles
Review Date : 4/15/2003
Reviewed By : Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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