Lichen planus: what it is and how it is treated

Lichen planus is an inflammatory disease that can affect both the skin and mucous membranes. Let’s find out what it depends on and what are the possible treatments.

Lichen planus usually presents as an inflammatory rash that originates primarily on the limbs, trunk, scalp, nails, mouth , and genitals. Non-contagious, it occurs when the immune system attacks its own cells.
It can occur mildly or in a more severe form , which is why it is always important to consult a doctor to know your situation in order to find the most suitable treatment.

Lichen ruber planus: causes

Lichen in dermatology is highlighted by the pink or red patches that appear on the skin. In general, an objective examination is enough to recognize it and to understand its extent.

Unfortunately, there is still no reliable information regarding the causes . However, it is thought that at the origin there is a problem on the part of the immune system. The lichen planus reaction on the skin is in fact of the autoimmune type.

For this reason, cutaneous lichen planus is seen as a problem that can arise more easily due to medication or a weakened immune system. Which, in turn, can happen for various reasons.

Recent studies have also noted a possible correlation with hepatitis C, although this is not always present in those who suffer from it.

Lichen planus cutaneous and not: how to cure it

For lichen ruber planus, the treatment is usually based on corticosteroids , antihistamines and, for the oral one, specific mouthwashes. It is a disease that can regress even on its own but that usually takes from a few months to a few years. On average, it is estimated that in most cases, and in non-severe forms, lichen regresses or heals within six months or a year at most.
This applies to both warty and oral lichen.

As with all diseases that originate from an autoimmune reaction, it is also very important to take care of nutrition and stress management. It may therefore be useful to consult a psychodermatologist in order to address both aspects.

To find the right treatment it is therefore essential to have a first medical visit to ascertain the presence of the problem. Only in this way will you be able to understand if you suffer from this pathology and what is the most suitable cure to treat it quickly.