Lichen Planus
An itchy immune eruption of skin, mouth and nails.
Lichen planus is an immune-mediated eruption producing flat-topped, violaceous, intensely itchy papules — classically on the wrists, ankles and lower back. It may also involve the mouth, genitals, scalp and nails.
- None
- Downtime
- 3–6 wks
- First results
- Biopsy
- Diagnosis
- Periodic
- Review
- Potent topical corticosteroids
- Intralesional injection
- Systemic immunomodulators
- Oral & genital surveillance
Diagnosed first, treated second.
Oral and genital forms can be painful and require long-term surveillance; nail involvement can be permanently destructive if untreated. Diagnosis is confirmed clinically and, where needed, by biopsy.
- 01Potent topical corticosteroids
- 02Intralesional injection
- 03Systemic immunomodulators
- 04Oral & genital surveillance
- 05Medication review
- Itchy purple papules on wrists or ankles
- White lacy patches inside the mouth
- Painful oral or genital erosions
- Ridged, thinning or splitting nails
- Eruption after starting a new medication
How the treatment works
A sequence, not a single appointment — each step informs the next.
- 01
Confirmation
Examination of skin, mouth, nails and scalp, with biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
- 02
Trigger review
Medications, hepatitis status and dental materials are assessed as potential drivers.
- 03
Treatment
Topical, injected or systemic immunomodulating therapy according to site and severity.
- 04
Surveillance
Oral and genital disease is reviewed periodically as a precaution.
Results measured, not promised.
What to expect
- 01Itch controlled quickly
- 02Papules flattened and settled
- 03Oral discomfort relieved
- 04Nail damage limited
- 05Post-inflammatory pigment managed
Begin with a diagnosis,
not a guess.
Share a few details and the clinic will reply with available consultation times for lichen planus — one-to-one with Dr. Arely.
- Response
- Within 24 hours
- Consultation
- One-to-one, 45 min
- Assessment
- Trichoscopy included
- Location
- Dr. Arely Clinic
Frequently asked
Most skin disease resolves within one to two years; oral disease can persist longer.
Often dark post-inflammatory pigmentation, which fades slowly and can be treated.
No. It is an immune-mediated condition, not an infection.
Oral involvement is common and long-standing erosive disease warrants periodic monitoring.