There is no cure for LP, but topical or oral steroids can help bring the symptoms under control.
They also differ by the symptoms and complications a person may experience, including the risk of cancer.
Cutaneous Lichen Planus
Cutaneous LP affects the skin.
It is characterized by flat, purplish lesions that develop over several weeks.
Scaly patches and itching, sometimes extreme, are also common.
After the rash clears, the skin may be darker than normal (known aspost-inflammatory hyperpigmentation).
Although the disease can affect any mucosal tissue in the body, the mouth is predominantly affected.
Causes
Lichen planus is most commonly seen in people between the ages of 30 and 60.
Women are more frequently affected than men.
The cause of lichen planus is unknown.
There is no single test available that can diagnose LP on its own.
The diagnosis would start with a review of your medical history and a physical exam of the affected area.
Atissue biopsymay help confirm the diagnosis.
This may be obtained with a simple punch biopsy (using a paper punch-like gear).
There would also be areas with dead keratinocytes.
Most cases of cutaneous LP will spontaneously clear without treatment within six months to a year.
The treatment, if any, is focused on alleviating itching and scratching that can prolong symptoms.
Treatment is considered essential because the prolonged duration of symptoms can increase the risk oforal cancer.
In most cases, LP is not life-threatening.
However, severe cases have been known to cause permanent scarring and hair loss.
Cutaneous LP is not associated with an increased risk of skin cancer.
LP is diagnosed based on your symptoms and may be confirmed with a biopsy.
Cutaneous LP tends to clear on its own within weeks, months, or years.
Oral LP is often difficult to treat and may persist for years even with high-potency corticosteroids.
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