Do you know all the “surnames” of lichen?
Lichen is the name shared by several skin diseases. Depending on its “surname” it may present different symptoms and signs that sometimes require different treatments. Knowing the different types of lichen will help you get a correct diagnosis and treat it properly.
The types of lichen are: lichen sclerosus, lichen planus and lichen simplex chronicus.
Here are the main characteristics of the different types of lichen to help you as a patient to better understand these diseases that can affect the skin of the vulva, among other parts of the body.
Lichen Sclerosus (or lichen scleroatrophicus)
- DescriptionLichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that mainly affects the vulvar and perianal area, especially in women. In 20% of cases, white plaques may appear and cause itching in other areas of the body: shoulders, hips, rubbing or friction areas. Neither the vaginal mucosa nor the mucosa of the mouth and gums are affected.
- Symptoms and signs: Symptoms in the vulvar and perianal area include intense itching that can interrupt sleep, burning, white skin, fissures, atrophy of the labia minora and majora, phimosis of the clitoris, among others. Find out all the symptoms here.
- Affected population: May appear in childhood, persist into adolescence and adulthood.
- ComplicationsLichen sclerosus may increase the risk of vulvar squamous cell cancer, so it is important to seek appropriate treatment for each case.
- DiagnosisDiagnosis is made by observation of symptoms, signs and, in some cases, by skin biopsy.
Lichen Planus
- DescriptionLichen planus is also a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin and mucous membranes that can cause flat, small, itchy skin lesions and burning. The vaginal mucosa is affected and the mucosa of the mouth, esophagus and gums may also be affected.
- Symptoms and signsLesions usually appear as small raised lesions or flat purple spots that may cause intense itching and burning.
- LocalizationMay affect the skin, nails, scalp and mucous membranes of the mouth and vulva.
- Triggering factors: Although the exact cause is not always clear, lichen planus can be triggered by stress, skin trauma, infections and certain medications (Beta-blockers, NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, penicillamine, thiazides…).
I leave you here an article to know in depth the difference between these two types of lichen: sclerosus and flat.
Lichen Simplex Chronicus – Neurodermatitis
- DescriptionLichen simplex chronicus, also known as neurodermatitis, is a condition in which repetitive scratching of the skin leads to the formation of thick, scaly plaques.
- SymptomsSymptoms of lichen planus may include chronic itching, thickening and reddening of the skin, and peeling of the affected areas.
- CausesStress, anxiety and persistent itching may trigger or worsen lichen simplex chronicus.
- LocationCommon areas affected include the neck, wrists, vulva, ankles and perianal region.
- TreatmentTreatment focuses on interrupting the itch-scratch cycle and may involve the use of corticosteroid creams, emollients or moisturizers, oral antihistamines, behavioral therapy (which may include sleeping with cotton gloves to avoid nighttime scratching) and stress management techniques. It is not amenable to treatment using stem cells derived from the patient’s own fat.
If you suffer from one of these illnesses, remember that you can use the Dermnix Moisturizing Oil to help reduce the symptoms thanks to its formula with 100% natural components chosen for their high anti-inflammatory capacity.
Understanding and differentiating the different types of lichen will help you get a correct diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan to control your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Remember that if you have any of these symptoms, we recommend that you see a specialist in vulvar lichen.