We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Conditions

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is Lichenoid Dermatitis?

By Jami Yontz
Updated: Mar 03, 2024
Views: 93,403
Share

Lichenoid dermatitis is an allergy that forms on the skin and causes a purple, itchy rash. It is caused by damage to the epidermis, which results in inflammation and problems with how the outer layer of skin interacts with the next inner layer of tissue, called the dermis. The condition is also known as lichen planus and most commonly results in lichenoid mucositis, a condition in which white lesions, blisters and ulcers form in the mouth. It does not usually affect children or young adults.

An uncommon condition, lichenoid dermatitis is easily diagnosed because of the purple tint of the polygonal papules, or raised bumps, that form on the skin. The rash usually forms on the ankles, lower back, wrists or forearms. It can also appear on the scalp, nails or genitals. The bumps can be anywhere from small, tiny dots to larger discs that can turn into scaly patches of skin that are itchy or uncomfortable. The rash can also appear as a line on parts of the body and often a gray discoloration of the skin results once the rash has disappeared.

It is believed that the problem is caused by an allergic reaction to medication or other chemicals, or that it develops as a result of a viral infection. Many heart disease, high blood pressure, hypoglycemic and arthritis medications are believed to cause an allergic reaction. Proton pump inhibitors have also been known to cause it.

While lichenoid dermatitis is not contagious, it can indicate a more serious skin condition, or could be caused by hepatitis C or graft-versus-host disease of the skin. A person with symptoms of this type of inflammation should immediately consult a medical professional to determine the cause of the rash and to develop a treatment plan. Usually, the skin will heal naturally within two years, but it can suddenly reoccur.

A healthcare professional can prescribe cortisone lotions or foams to treat the rash, but a patient will need to avoid the chemical substance that initially caused the irritation. Antihistamines for inflammation or antibiotics for an infection are also commonly prescribed. Depending on the severity of the rash, a medical professional may suggest steroid injections or photochemotherapy light treatments. These treatments will only help with the itching or look of the rash, however, and will not cure the skin condition.

Share
The Health Board is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By Gabeliam — On Jun 20, 2011

@simeyo - If you're concerned about any skin rash you should visit your doctor. Usually they can tell the difference just by looking but if they can't, then a simple biopsy can give a diagnosis. If you've seen pictures of lichenoid dermatitis, you'll see that it's fairly distinctive looking.

You could also have atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis or some other skin condition so it's best to get medical attention on any rash that doesn't resolve on its own in a few days.

By SimeyO — On Jun 17, 2011

How do you know if you have eczema or lichenoid dermatitis?

By Fantastic5 — On Jun 16, 2011

Pulsed dye lasers are being researched as a possible lichenoid dermatitis treatment. It may prove to be a good alternative for those whose condition is resistant to treatment by corticosteroids.

Share
https://www.thehealthboard.com/what-is-lichenoid-dermatitis.htm
Copy this link
The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.