What should you know about lichen planus common site?

On the skin, lichen planus may form clusters of itchy, firm, flat-topped bumps that merge into rough patches. Wrists and ankles are frequent locations, but the distribution can vary. New lesions sometimes follow scratching or another injury. Mouth involvement may look like white lines, patches, soreness or ulcers; genital involvement can cause burning or discomfort. Scalp disease may affect hair-bearing skin, and nail disease can produce ridging, thinning or changes in shape. A site-specific symptom may be more useful than colour when deciding how quickly to seek review.

Note every affected site, when it appeared and whether it itches, burns or hurts. Avoid scratching and friction, use a gentle cleanser and moisturise dry areas. A dermatologist may recommend topical corticosteroids for skin lesions, with oral corticosteroid treatment considered when inflammation is widespread or difficult to control. Mouth, scalp, nail and genital symptoms should be mentioned even if the skin rash seems mild because they may need a targeted examination.

Arrange medical review for persistent itchy bumps or patches, especially when several body sites are involved. Seek prompt care for mouth or genital sores, difficulty eating or swallowing, eye pain, sudden hair loss, painful nail changes, rapidly spreading lesions, pus or fever.

Which sites are affected in my case? Do my mouth, scalp, nails or genital symptoms need a separate check? Which treatment fits each body area? How can I reduce scratching without irritating the skin?