What Is Lichen Planus?

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Lichen planus is an inflammatory condition characterized by itchy, flat-topped purplish bumps, which usually affects the skin, hair, nails and mucous membranes. Symptoms The symptoms of lichen planus vary depending on the areas affected. Typical symptoms include:
  • Purplish, flat-topped bumps;
  • Itching;
  • Blisters that may break to form scabs or crusts.
Causes Lichen planus is caused by mistaken attacks from immune system to cells of the skin and mucous membrane. but the root causes are still not known. In some instances, certain factors may trigger lichen planus, such as:
  • Hepatitis C infection;
  • Flu vaccine;
  • Long-term exposures to Certain pigments, chemicals and metals;
  • Certain medications for heart disease, high blood pressure or arthritis.
Diagnosis Doctor will make a diagnosis based on your symptoms, your medical history, a physical examination and, if necessary, the results of lab tests. These tests may include biopsy, hepatitis C test and allergy tests. Treatments Medications and other treatments are used to relieve symptoms, including:
  • Corticosteroids;
  • Immune response medicines;
  • Antihistamines.
Light therapy and Retinoids will be used for treatments too if your condition doesn't respond to medications. If have any further questions, please go to see a doctor for professional help. Key words: lichen planus; biopsy; hepatitis C test; allergy tests.
My dad had this same thing so no I have it. Can this be hereditary or not and is the tanning bed good for this, WhY's the best the best treatment I mean it's on the bottoms of my feet, my arms, stomach, chest, and back. Does stress cause this, I would love to know everything. Please and thank u
Does stress cause lichen planus
Lichen planus is a skin rash triggered by the immune system. It’s not known why the immune response occurs. There may be several contributing factors, and each case is different. Potential causes include: viral infections. allergens. stress.
Stress can be defined as your body’s way of responding to any kind of demand or threat. It is a biological reaction to any physical, mental or emotional stimulus that tends to disturb one’s balance in the body. When the body senses stress, body’s defense activate in an automatic process known as the “fight or flight” reaction which is the stress response. This stress response will protect your body. Small amounts of stress helps you stay focused, energetic and cautious.
You may not be aware but skin and mental health are closely related. There is a debate whether lichen planus (LP) is caused by stress; however, the emotional stress can worsen the condition in some people. The skin is a complex system made up of blood vessels, glands, nerves and muscles which are controlled by the autonomic nervous system and it can be influenced by psychological stimuli. This can cause various skin disorders in the body.
Therefore, if you are under a stressful condition and develop lichen planus, you'd better live a stress free and happy blissful life in order to be healthy.
I have it too and my Dad and his mother had it. I believe lack of sunlight along with stress conteibute allot. I have been able to controll it pretty well. If i get a break out that seems to attack my arms and legs I immediatly get an appointment with a dermatologist and they will prescribe a Prednisone 10 day taper down  pack. It works like a dream. It may try to re appear in small areas but as long as you get sunlight on your whole body it will be under controll. Also just do your best to be extreemly healthy, like do everything right for yourself. miabunn@gmail.com
I once had lichen planus in my mouth and I noticed that avoiding yeast and sugar can help to treat lichen planus. Don’t eat sugar and yeast when you have lichen planus. Stop smoking or chewing tobacco. After that I start to pay more attention to my oral health and yeast and sugar intake. I also tried to apply a little salt on them when I had lichen planus. It burned painfully but I think it was useful.
What can be done for Nail Lichen Planus. All of my nails have fallen off. I do not have any sores. No sores on my nails.  I just don’t know what to do.  Please help me???
Have you tried cortocosteroid creams? The first choice for treatment of lichen planus is usually a prescription corticosteroid cream or ointment. If that doesn't help and your condition is severe or widespread, your doctor might suggest a corticosteroid pill or injection.
What percentage of people get lichen planus?
Lichen planus affects about one in one hundred people worldwide, mostly affecting adults over the age of 40 years. About half those affected have oral lichen planus, which is more common in women than in men. About 10% have lichen planus of the nails.
Can Lichen planus make your toenails turn black. I lost my big toenail last year last year and now the other big one is starting. It looked horrible and took a total year from start to finish before it is now looking halfway decent
Yes, lichen planus does involve the toenails and it could lead to toenail loss. See a dermatologist if you're concerned.

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