How is lichen planus Pigmentosus diagnosed?

A diagnosis of lichen planus pigmentosus is usually suspected based on the presence of characteristic signs and symptoms. A skin biopsy may then be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.

Is there a blood test for lichen planus?

Your healthcare provider or dentist may diagnose lichen planus based on the changes on your skin or in your mouth. To make sure of the diagnosis, you may need these tests: Blood test. This can rule out other causes of your symptoms.

Is lichen planus Pigmentosus curable?

Most lichen planus is relatively mild. Affected individuals who do not have symptoms do not need treatment. Ultimately, there is no agreed-upon cure for this condition. Topical corticosteroid creams or topical calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus or pimecrolimus may alleviate the itch and rash.

How do you prevent lichen planus Pigmentosus from spreading?

How to manage or live with the condition

1. Avoid injuries to your skin.
2. Apply cool compresses instead of scratching.
3. Limit the stress in your life.
4. For oral lichen planus, stop smoking, avoid alcohol, maintain good oral hygiene, and avoid any foods that seem to irritate your mouth.

Is lichen planus Pigmentosus an autoimmune disease?

Lichen planus (LP) is a rare, chronic, inflammatory autoimmune skin and mucous membrane disease. LP most commonly presents as itchy, shiny, reddish-purple spots (lesions) on the skin (cutaneous LP) or as white-gray lesions in the mouth or on the lips (oral LP).

What happens if you don’t treat lichen planus?

As it heals, lichen planus often leaves a dark brown discoloration of the skin. Like the bumps themselves, these stains may eventually fade with time without treatment. When oral mucosa is affected by lichen planus, there is a slightly increased risk of developing oral cancer.

What causes lichen planopilaris?

Causes of Lichen Planopilaris. Exposure to certain chemicals and allergic reactions to certain drugs are known to cause “lichenoid” reactions, though how is unclear. For example, exposure to antimalarial agents, penicillin, beta blockers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and gold has been known to cause lichen planus.

Is lichen planopilaris caused by a fungus?

The name “lichen” comes from the skin lesions of lichen planus that some patients with lichen planopilaris also have. The skin lesions are flat just like lichens that one might see walking in the forest. Lichen planopilaris is not due to a fungus. It is an autoimmune inflammatory condition that causes permanent hair loss.

What is the prevalence of lichen planus in the US?

Oral lichen planus is relatively common, It is one of the most common mucosal diseases. The prevalence in the general population is about 1.27-2.0%, and it occurs more commonly in middle aged people.

What is the history of lichen planus?

Some studies suggest that cutaneous lichen planus is more commonly found in men whilst oral lichen planus lesions are more commonly found in women. History. Lichen planus was first reported in 1869 by Erasmus Wilson.