What should you know about lichen planus purple spots?

Lichen planus may produce small, firm, purple-red or dusky bumps that feel itchy or rough. They can occur on the wrists, ankles, lower legs, or other areas, and some have fine surface lines. After active inflammation fades, darker marks can remain. The presence of a purple spot does not identify its cause by itself. Learn more about [Lichen Planus](/conditions/lichen-planus/), [Itchy Skin](/symptoms/itchy-skin/), and [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/).

Arrange a dermatology assessment if spots persist, multiply, itch heavily, or involve the mouth, genitals, nails, or scalp. Avoid picking and fragranced products, keep nails short, and note when the spots began and whether new medicines or products preceded them. A clinician may diagnose the pattern by examination and may sample a lesion if another condition needs to be excluded. Prescribed options can include [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/).

Seek prompt care for painful sores, extensive blistering, rapidly changing lesions, fever, eye symptoms, trouble eating or swallowing, or signs of infection such as increasing warmth and pus. A spot that bleeds repeatedly, forms a persistent ulcer, or changes unlike the others should be examined directly. Urgent help is needed for breathing difficulty or sudden facial swelling.

Do these spots fit lichen planus or another rash? Is the disease active or leaving residual colour? Should another medicine or contact exposure be considered? Would a biopsy be useful, and what treatment is suitable for the affected body area?