Lichen planus
Chronic inflammatory disease with violaceous papules and frequent mucosal involvement. It benefits from evaluation and follow-up by a dermatologist.
What is lichen planus
Lychen planus is a chronic inflammatory disease of immune mechanism that can affect the skin, mucous membranes (mouth, genitals), nails and scalp. It is manifested by flat papules, violaceous, often with itching.
It is less common than other inflammatory dermatoses, but its impact may be significant, especially when it affects mucous membranes or scalp. It requires evaluation and monitoring by a dermatologist.
Signs and symptoms
- Flat, polygonal, violaceous or reddish papules.
- Surface with fine white lines (Wickham stages).
- Itch — usually intense.
- In mucous membranes — yielded white plaques, or painful lesions.
- Nails — depressions, grooves, destruction of the nail blade.
- On the scalp — can cause scarring alopecia (permanent loss of hair).
Typical locations
- Skin — above all inner faces of wrists and forearms, ankles, back and lateral side of the trunk.
- Oral mucosa — very common; inside cheeks, tongue, gums.
- Genital mucosa — can be symptomatic and have a significant impact on quality of life.
- Nails — involvement in about 10% of cases.
- Hairy leather — scarring shape (pilous lichen plane); requires early treatment.
Causes
- Autoimmune mechanism — immune response against skin/mucosal structures.
- individual predisposition
- Some medicines may trigger similar forms (lichen plan).
- Association with hepatitis C in some patients — to be considered in the investigation.
- Specific triggering factors — trauma, stress, some infections.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is clinical, because of its characteristic appearance. In an online consultation, the dermatologist evaluates photographs of skin and/or mucosal lesions and a questionnaire on evolution, symptoms and medication in progress.
In doubtful cases, with atypical forms or with significant mucosal involvement, skin biopsy — which requires face-to-face evaluation — may be recommended. Complementary analyses (hepatic function, serologies) may be useful in certain contexts.
Talk to a dermatologist about the lichen plan
No months-long wait for an in-person appointment. Each case reaches the dermatologist already prepared with photographs, history and questionnaire answers. Choose a report in under 24h or a booked video consultation.
Start consultationOptions for treatment
Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, itching and prevent complications — especially in the forms involving the mucosa or scalp.
Topical application
Formulations applied to lesions, the basis of treatment in most skin cases. Chosen by the dermatologist according to location.
systemic treatment
Reserved for more extensive forms, with mucosal or scalp involvement, or resistant to topic. Defined by the dermatologist with continued follow-up.
Follow up
Chronic disease with outbreaks. Long-term monitoring is important — especially in mucosal forms, where there is a rare but real risk of transformation; it requires vigilance.
Frequently asked questions
Is it contagious?
Nope. Lychen planus is not an infection — it is an immune-based inflammatory disease. It's not transmitted between people.
Is there a cure?
There's no definitive cure. Many skin cases resolve within 1-2 years with treatment; mucosal forms may be more persistent. Monitoring is important.
Is online consultation for lichen plan?
Yes, for initial evaluation, planning and monitoring. Cases requiring biopsy or specialised evaluation of mucous membranes require next face - to - face — the dermatologist indicates.
Do the lesions leave a mark?
Typical skin lesions may leave residual hyperpigmentation that clears over time. Scarring forms (hairy leather, some mucous membranes) may leave permanent marks — an important reason for early treatment.
Assess lichen planus early
Send photos and answer the questionnaire. A dermatologist analyzes and proposes the plan — on average 24 hours useful.
- From 60€
- Report on average within 24 working hours
- Ongoing follow-up