What should you know about lichen planus spread?

Lichen planus can affect skin at more than one site and may also involve the mouth, nails, scalp or genital skin. New lesions can appear as the inflammatory process continues, while scratching, rubbing or skin injury can make existing areas more irritated. This does not mean the condition is contagious; ordinary contact does not transmit lichen planus.

A new patch is not automatically lichen planus. A clinician compares its colour, surface, shape and symptoms with the original lesions and considers other rashes, reactions or infections.

Photograph changing areas in consistent light and note itch, pain, bleeding, products and possible friction. Arrange a review if lesions multiply, involve a new body region, or fail to settle. Use gentle cleansing, moisturiser and loose clothing; avoid scratching, picking and abrasive treatments.

Read more about [Lichen Planus](/conditions/lichen-planus/), [Itchy Skin](/symptoms/itchy-skin/) and [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/). Treatment may include [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/); [Oral Corticosteroid Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-corticosteroid-therapy/) is reserved for selected situations.

Seek prompt assessment for rapid change, severe pain, pus, marked warmth, blisters, open sores or lesions that bleed or do not heal. Get urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or inability to swallow. Ask for review of any persistent mouth, tongue, eye, nail or genital symptoms.

Ask whether the new areas match lichen planus, whether a skin sample is useful, and how to distinguish active inflammation from post-rash colour change. Discuss a plan for monitoring body sites that are harder to examine yourself.