Lichen Planus

What is Lichen Planus?

Lichen planus causes swelling and irritation in the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes.

Typical signs and symptoms include purplish, itchy, flat bumps, most often on the inner forearm, wrist, ankle and sometimes the genitals. The symptoms also include itching & lacy white patches in the mouth or on the lips or tongue, painful sores in the mouth or vagina, hair loss, change in scalp color and nail damage or loss. These lesions can develop and spread over the body over the course of several weeks or a few months.

Lichen planus is not usually contagious. Some rare variations might be serious and painful, and might need topical and oral medications to reduce symptoms or immunosuppressants. If the condition causes pain or significant itching, please contact your doctor.