Hypertrophic lichen planus

Lichen planus is an inflammatory skin condition. In its hypertrophic form, repeated rubbing and scratching make lesions thicker, rougher, and more sharply noticeable. They may be purple, brown, grey, or darker than surrounding skin. The itch can be severe, and scratching can create cracks or secondary infection.

Keep nails short, use cool compresses, and apply a bland moisturiser to reduce friction. Choose loose clothing over rough fabrics and avoid scrubbing the plaques. A clinician may prescribe topical corticosteroids to reduce local inflammation; oral corticosteroid treatment may be considered for broader or difficult disease. Read more about Lichen Planus, Itchy Skin, and Skin Bumps to compare related symptoms and care.

Seek review when lesions are new, spreading, bleeding, ulcerated, painful, or not improving with the prescribed plan. Prompt care is needed for pus, warmth, rapidly spreading redness, or fever. Lesions in the mouth, eyes, or genital area also warrant medical assessment.

Ask whether a biopsy is needed, how long to use topical corticosteroids, what can control night-time itch, and whether another condition could be causing the thick plaques.