Lichen Planus Treatment In Noida

Lichen Planus Treatment

Lichen planus is an inflammatory skin condition that results in rashes that can affect various areas, including the arms, legs, scalp, nails, genital region, and even inside the mouth. In many cases, it resolves on its own without the need for treatment, but certain treatments can help alleviate the associated symptoms, like itching.

What is Lichen Planus?

Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects both the skin and mucosal surfaces of the body. It can manifest in different forms, including:

• Cutaneous Lichen Planus
• Mucosal Lichen Planus
• Lichen Planopilaris
• Lichen Planus of the Nails
• Lichen Planus Pigmentosus
• Lichenoid Drug Eruption

Who is Affected by Lichen Planus?

Lichen planus impacts approximately 1% of the global population, predominantly adults between 30 and 60 years old. It does not show a strong racial preference. Around 10% of those with lichen planus experience nail involvement, while 50% may develop oral lichen planus, with a higher incidence in women than men.

What Causes Lichen Planus?

Lichen planus is considered an autoimmune disorder in which T-cells, part of the immune system, mistakenly attack an unknown protein found in skin and mucosal cells. Factors that may contribute to its development include:

• Genetic predisposition
• Stress (both physical and emotional)
• Skin injury, such as from scratching or surgery (known as Koebnerization)
• Local skin conditions, like herpes zoster
• Viral infections such as hepatitis C
• Allergies to metals or certain chemicals
• Certain medications (e.g., quinine, quinidine)
• Vitamin D deficiency, especially related to oral lichen planus

Clinical Features of Lichen Planus

Lichen planus can present in various ways, with symptoms depending on the area it affects.

• Cutaneous Lichen Planus: Typically appears as shiny, flat-topped papules or plaques, which may be purple or violet in color, often accompanied by fine white lines (Wickham striae). The lesions can vary in size and may appear in patterns like scattered, linear, or annular forms. They can appear anywhere on the body, but are most common on the wrists, lower back, and ankles.
• Oral Lichen Planus: Characterized by white streaks in a lacy pattern (Wickham striae) or painful ulcers and erosions, often affecting the inside of the cheeks, tongue, and gums.
• Vulvar Lichen Planus: Affects the labia and vaginal area, presenting with similar white streaks or painful ulcers and can lead to scarring and vaginal inflammation.
• Penile Lichen Planus: Often involves papules forming rings around the glans, along with white streaks or erosive lesions.
• Lichen Planopilaris: Involves the scalp, leading to hair follicle destruction and bald patches. Frontal fibrosing alopecia is a subtype that affects the anterior scalp and eyebrows.
• Nail Lichen Planus: Affects one or more nails, leading to thinning, ridging, darkening, or detachment of the nail from the nail bed.
• Lichen Planus Pigmentosus: Characterized by greyish-brown, ill-defined marks on the face, neck, trunk, and limbs.
• Lichen Planus Actinicus: Triggered by sunlight exposure, it usually affects sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, and hands.
• Lichenoid Drug Eruption: A rash caused by certain medications resembling lichen planus, affecting areas like the trunk and sometimes the mucosa.

Symptoms of Lichen Planus

Symptoms can vary depending on the affected area. On the skin, small raised dots (about 0.4 mm to 1 cm in size) can develop, which may grow into sores. In the mouth, white dots or streaks may appear on the inside of the cheeks, tongue, or lips. Nails may change in appearance, becoming cracked, discolored, or even falling off. Although the condition is not painful, scratching the rash can lead to infection and subsequent pain.

Triggers of Lichen Planus Flare-Ups

Several factors can trigger flare-ups, including:

• Hepatitis C
• Certain vaccines
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Medications for arthritis, heart disease, or high blood pressure
• Exposure to specific chemicals, metals, or pigments

Treatment for Lichen Planus

Currently, there is no cure for lichen planus, but many treatments can help manage symptoms. In most cases, lichen planus will resolve on its own over time, ranging from months to years.

Treatment options include:

• Corticosteroid creams or ointments to reduce inflammation
• Antihistamines for itching relief
• Phototherapy using ultraviolet light to alleviate skin issues
• Immunosuppressants to help modulate the immune response
• Retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives) to promote skin healing
• Good oral hygiene and avoiding injury or irritation to help manage oral lichen planus

Cost of Lichen Planus Treatment

The cost of treating lichen planus varies depending on factors such as the severity of the condition, treatment method, and duration of care. Factors influencing the cost include:

• Type of treatment required (topical vs oral medications, phototherapy)
• Frequency of visits to healthcare providers
• The specific area of the body affected
• Duration of the condition and response to treatment

Why Choose Dr. Monica Bambroo for Lichen Planus Treatment in Noida?

Dr. Monica Bambroo is highly regarded for her expertise in diagnosing and treating skin conditions like lichen planus. With extensive experience in dermatology, she offers personalized care and advanced lichen planus treatment in Noida, tailored to each patient's needs. Whether dealing with lichen planus on the skin, nails, or mucosal surfaces, Dr. Bambroo provides effective management strategies to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.