Lichen Planus vs. Lichen Sclerosus

Attribute	Lichen Planus	Lichen Sclerosus
Cause	Autoimmune reaction	Unknown
Appearance	Purple, flat-topped bumps	White, patchy skin
Location	Skin, mucous membranes	Genital and anal areas
Symptoms	Itching, burning, pain	Itching, pain, scarring
Treatment	Corticosteroids, antihistamines	Corticosteroids, immunosuppressants

Introduction

Lichen planus and lichen sclerosus are two distinct skin conditions that can affect individuals of all ages. While they may sound similar due to their shared name, they have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. In this article, we will compare the attributes of lichen planus and lichen sclerosus to help differentiate between the two conditions.

Cause

Lichen planus is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the skin or mucous membranes. It is not contagious and is thought to be triggered by factors such as stress, genetics, or certain medications. On the other hand, lichen sclerosus is considered to be a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the genital and anal areas. The exact cause of lichen sclerosus is unknown, but it is thought to be related to hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, or an overactive immune response.

Symptoms

Lichen planus typically presents as itchy, flat-topped, purple or reddish bumps on the skin or white patches in the mouth. These bumps may be shiny and have irregular borders. In contrast, lichen sclerosus often appears as white, patchy areas of thin skin that may be itchy, painful, or easily irritated. The skin in the affected areas may become fragile and prone to tearing or bleeding.

Location

Lichen planus can occur on various parts of the body, including the skin, nails, scalp, and mucous membranes such as the mouth, genitals, and esophagus. It is not limited to any specific area and can affect multiple areas simultaneously. On the other hand, lichen sclerosus primarily affects the genital and anal regions, although it can also occur on other parts of the body such as the breasts, upper arms, and back.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing lichen planus usually involves a physical examination of the affected skin or mucous membranes, along with a review of the patient's medical history. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Lichen sclerosus is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and may also require a skin biopsy to rule out other conditions such as skin cancer.

Treatment

Treatment for lichen planus focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing flare-ups. This may include topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, or phototherapy. In severe cases, oral medications or injections may be necessary. Lichen sclerosus is usually treated with topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching. Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.

Complications

While lichen planus is not considered a serious condition, it can cause discomfort and affect a person's quality of life. In some cases, lichen planus may lead to scarring, changes in skin color, or nail damage. Lichen sclerosus, on the other hand, can cause more serious complications if left untreated. It may increase the risk of skin cancer in the affected areas and can lead to scarring or narrowing of the genital or anal openings.

Prognosis

Lichen planus is a chronic condition that may come and go over time. While there is no cure for lichen planus, symptoms can often be managed effectively with treatment. Lichen sclerosus is also a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. With proper treatment, most individuals with lichen sclerosus can experience relief from symptoms and prevent complications.