Description of lichen planus

The bumps may have fine white lines on their surface and can join into rougher patches. New lesions sometimes appear where skin has been scratched or injured. In the mouth, lichen planus may look like white lacy lines, soreness or erosions rather than ordinary skin bumps. Several other rashes can look similar, so a dermatologist may need to examine the skin closely and occasionally take a sample.

Use gentle, fragrance-free skin care and avoid scratching or rubbing affected areas. Keep a record of changes in the mouth, nails, hair or genital skin, and mention new medicines or exposures at the appointment. Treatment depends on the site and severity; a clinician may discuss topical corticosteroids or, when broader disease needs control, oral corticosteroid treatment.

Arrange a dermatology review for persistent itchy bumps, mouth soreness, hair loss, nail distortion or genital discomfort. Seek prompt care for painful mouth or genital erosions, difficulty eating or drinking, eye symptoms, or a rapidly changing lesion. Do not assume every purple or scaly bump is lichen planus.

Which features make lichen planus more likely in my case? Do I need an examination of my mouth, nails, scalp or genital skin? Would a biopsy help confirm the diagnosis? Which treatment is safest for the affected site, and what changes should prompt review?