skin disorders
Lichen Planus
Introduction
Lichen planus, a recurring itchy disease, starts as a rash of small, separate, red or purple bumps that then combine and become rough, scaly patches. The cause is unknown but may be a reaction to certain medications or possibly hepatitis B or C infection. Typical symptoms include an itchy rash made of red or purple bumps that form into scaly patches appearing on different parts of the body and sometimes in the mouth or on the genitals. Medications that may be causing lichen planus should be avoided. Lichen planus usually resolves without treatment, but symptoms may be treated with corticosteroids, exposure to ultraviolet light, orlidocaine-containing mouthwashes. This disease can last for more than 1 year, and it can recur. The cause of lichen planus is not known, but it may be a reaction by the immune system to a variety of medications (especially beta-blockers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs], angiotensin-converting enzyme [ACE] inhibitors, sulfonylureas, antimalarials,penicillamine, and thiazides). The disorder itself is not contagious. Lichen planus of the mouth may occur in some people who have Hepatitis B, Chronic , have received the hepatitis B vaccine, have 