Lichen planus

Overview

Lichen planus is an immune reaction affecting skin, mouth, nails, or genitals.

Mouth lichen planus can last years and needs regular checks.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Itchy purple bumps
• Purple, flat, itchy bumps, or white lacy lines in the mouth

Less common

• Mouth patches
• Nail ridges
• Hair loss

When to get medical care

Causes

Immune.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Hepatitis C

Possible complications

• Scarring hair loss (cicatricial alopecia): If the scalp is affected
• Mouth sore or patch that won't heal: Mouth lichen planus needs checking

Diagnosis

Exam or biopsy.

Treatment

Soothe.

Self-care

• Avoid scratching

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults 30 to 60: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Often fades in 1 to 2 years.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• Do I need follow-up for my mouth?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Lichen planus