Lichen Planus

Lichen Planus – Homeopathic Treatment

Lichen planus is an inflammatory condition that affects the skin, mouth, nails, scalp, or genital areas. It can cause itchy rashes, painful oral lesions, nail changes, and skin discoloration. When it affects mucous membranes, burning and soreness may occur.

Causes

• Hepatitis C infection
• Side effects of medications (blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, malaria drugs)
• Reaction to metal dental fillings
• Autoimmune reaction where the body attacks its own skin/mucous membrane cells
• Genetic predisposition
• Certain viral infections
• Environmental triggers such as metals or chemicals

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on the appearance of lesions. A biopsy is often required for confirmation.

Symptoms

Skin

• Shiny red or purple bumps (papules) that may itch intensely
• Fine white lines (Wickham striae) on the bumps
• Thick scaly patches on shins or ankles
• Lesions may appear where skin is scratched or injured (Koebner phenomenon)
• Dark patches after healing (hyperpigmentation)

Mouth (Oral Lichen Planus)

• Lacy white patches on inner cheeks or tongue
• Burning, soreness, or painful ulcers in severe cases

Nails

• Nail thinning
• Ridges or splitting
• Partial or complete nail loss

Scalp (Lichen Planopilaris)

• Redness and irritation
• Minute painful eruptions
• Hair thinning or scarring in some cases

Genitals

• Bright red, painful patches
• Discomfort or burning sensation

Types of Lichen Planus

Lichen planus can affect:

• Skin: Most common; lesions spread over weeks to months.
• Oral cavity: Lacy white patches or painful ulcers.
• Genitals
• Nails
• Scalp (may cause scarring alopecia)
• Mucous membranes such as esophagus (rare)

Risk Factors

• Middle-aged adults
• Females more prone to oral lichen planus
• Family history of lichen planus
• Hepatitis C infection
• Exposure to triggering chemicals or metals (mercury, copper)
• Use of certain medications

Testing

• Biopsy to confirm diagnosis
• Allergy testing for metal or chemical sensitivities
• Liver function tests including Hepatitis C testing

Complications

• Pain and burning (especially in genital or oral areas)
• Skin discoloration that may last long (hyperpigmentation)
• Scarring in scalp lichen planus
• Discomfort during sexual activity (genital LP)
• Increased risk of carcinoma in long-standing erosive lesions
• Risk of secondary bacterial skin infection

Treatment Approach

• Prescription of Homeopathic medications for reducing inflammation, itching, and spread of lesions
• Counselling to understand disease pattern and triggers
• Dos and don’ts for skincare, oral hygiene, and affected body areas
• Dietary advice and restrictions depending on associated conditions