Lichen Simplex Chronicus : What Is It ? Management Diagnosis and Natural Treatment

Lichen Simplex Chronicus : What Is It ? Management Diagnosis and Natural Treatment

Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC) is thickening of the skin with variable scaling that arises secondary to repetitive scratching or rubbing. LSC is not a primary process.

Rather, a person senses pruritus in a specific area of skin (with or without underlying pathology) and causes mechanical trauma to the point of lichenification. LSC is found on the skin in regions accessible to scratching. Pruritus provokes rubbing that produces clinical lesions, but the underlying pathophysiology is unknown. A relationship likely exists between central and peripheral neural tissue and inflammatory cell products in the perception of itch and ensuing changes in LSC. The possible interplay among primary lesions, psychic factors, and the intensity of pruritus additively influence the extent and severity of LSC.

Pruritus is usually described as much worse during periods of inactivity, usually at bedtime and during the night. Touch and emotional stress also may provoke pruritus, which is relieved by moderate-to-severe rubbing and scratching.

LSC occurs mostly in mid-to-late adulthood, with highest prevalence in persons aged 30-50 years.

-Scalp, Nape of neck,
-Extensor forearms and elbows
-Vulva and scrotum
-Upper medial thighs, knees, lower legs, and ankles lichenified, firm, rough plaques with exaggerated skin lines are noted.

Pigmentary changes (especially hyperpigmentation) are seen variably as in any dermatitic lesion.

Treatment is aimed at reducing pruritus and minimizing existing lesions because rubbing and scratching cause LSC. Topical steroids are the current treatment of choice because they decrease
inflammation and itch while concurrently softening the hyperkeratosis. Because lesions are by nature chronic, treatment most likely is very long. Occasionally, occlusion is used to increase potency and enhance delivery of the steroids and also provides a physical barrier to the scratching. Keratolytes (2% - 3% Salicylic acid) could be used in lichenfied lesion to remove the hyperkeratosis.

Lichen Simplex Chronicus : What Is It ? Management Diagnosis and Natural Treatment 2018-12-24T05:43:00-08:00 Rating: 4.5 Diposkan Oleh: David Maharoni