Lichen Planus
Diagnosing lichen planus
Source: NHS
In this topic (8)
Lichen planus is oftendiagnosed by a GP or dentist examining the affected area.
Lichen planus of the skin
Your GP may be able to make a diagnosis based on the characteristic rash.However, lichen planus can be mistaken for other skin conditions, such as eczema ,which also causes the skin to become red, flaky and itchy.
If your doctoris unable to make a confident diagnosis by examining your skin, they may want to take a small skin sample ( biopsy ), which will be examined under a microscope.
If a skin biopsy is required, you'll be given a local anaesthetic to numb the affected area so you don't feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
Lichen planus of the mouth (oral lichen planus)
A dentist or doctor can diagnose oral lichen planus by looking at the inside of your mouth.
A biopsy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis. A sampleofmouth tissue will be removed so that it can be examined under a microscope.As with lichen planus of the skin, you'll be given a local anaesthetic to numb the pain.
Articles for Lichen Planus
'I try to keep my stress levels down'
Dale Hodgson was diagnosed with oral lichen planus when she was 44, and has learnt to adapt her lifestyle in order to cope.
'I was in so much pain I had to give up my job'
Bridget Nelson was diagnosed with a painful, erosive form of lichen planus that affected her mouth and vulva.
Causes of lichen planus
The cause of lichen planus is unknown. It's thought to be related to the immune system, or an abnormal response of the immune system to certain medicines.
Complications of lichen planus
Complications of lichen planus may include discoloured skin and, in some cases, erosive lichen planus may develop into certain types of cancer.
Diagnosing lichen planus
If you have lichen planus of the skin, your GP will examine the affected area and may be able to make a diagnosis based on the characteristic rash.
Introduction
Lichen planus is a non-infectious, itchy rash that can affect many areas of the body.
Symptoms of lichen planus
The symptoms of lichen planus vary, depending on which area of the body is affected. Affected areas can include the skin, mouth, penis and vulva.
Treating lichen planus
There's no cure for lichen planus, so treatments aim to ease the symptoms and clear the rash. Mild lichen planus doesn't require treatment.