Lichen planus (LP) is a disease of the skin and/or mucous membranes that resembles lichen. It is thought to be the result of an autoimmune process with an unknown initial trigger.
Lichen planus (LP) is a disease of the skin and/or mucous membranes that resembles lichen. It is thought to be the result of an autoimmune process with an unknown initial trigger. Where the trigger is known, the term lichenoid lesion is used instead. There is no cure, but many different medications and procedures have been used to control the symptoms. Although lichen planus can present with a variety of lesions, the most common presentation is as a well-defined area of purple-coloured, itchy, flat-topped papules with interspersed lacy white lines (Wickham’s striae). This rash, after regressing, is likely to leave an area of hyperpigmentation that slowly fades.