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Lichen Simplex Chronicus - Lichen Simplex Chronicus Information

Lichen simplex chronicus represents a self-perpetuating scratch-itch cycle. Lichen simplex chronicus is a skin disorder characterized by chronic itching and scratching. Lichen simplex is a type of dermatitis, and is usually the result of repeated rubbing or scratching. Lichen simplex chronicus, also called neurodermatitis, is a common skin problem. It generally affects adults, and may result in one, or many itchy patches. Lichen simplex Chronicus is not contagious and is not related to your general health.

Lichen Simplex Chronicus - Lichen Simplex Chronicus Information

Lichen simplex chronicus is a disease which is very rarely found and it is the chronic inflammation of the skin ( dermatitis ) characterized by small, round itchy spots that thicken and become leathery as a result of scratching. The constant scratching causes thick, leathery, brownish skin. Skin usually repairs itself quickly; however, in the case of lichen simplex chronicus, healing skin causes more itching and more scratching causes a thickening of the skin (lichen). Intermittent itching incites the patient to scratch the lesions. Itching may be so intense as to interfere with sleep. Dry, leathery, hypertrophic, lichenified plaques appear on the neck, ankles, perineum, or almost anywhere. The patches are rectangular, thickened, and hyperpigmented. The skin lines are exaggerated.

Lichen simplex chronicus is a disease which is commonly located on the ankle, wrist, neck, rectum/anal area, forearms, thighs, lower leg, back of the knee, inner elbow, etc.

People with lichen simplex chronicus have skin that is dry and easily irritated by soap, detergents, and rough wool clothing. Hot and cold weather often aggravates lichen simplex chronicus.

Symptoms of Lichen Simplex Chronicus

Symptoms are chronic itching which is often accompanied by nervous tension.

Itching of the skin
Skin lesion, patch, or plaque
Darkened (hyperpigmented) or reddened skin
Scratch marks
nervous tension, stress

Treatment of Lichen Simplex Chronicus :

Clobetasol, halobetasol, diflorasone, and betamethasone dipropionate are effective without occlusion and are used twice daily for several weeks. In some patients, flurandrenolide (Cordran) tape may be more effective, since it prevents scratching and rubbing of the lesion. These superpotent steroids are probably the treatment of choice but must be used with careful follow-up to avoid local side effects. The injection of triamcinolone acetonide suspension (5–10 mg/mL) into the lesions may occasionally be curative. Use of tars, such as 10% LCD (liquor carbonis detergens) with topical steroids, or continuous occlusion with a occlusive flexible hydrocolloid dressing for 7 days at a time for 1–2 months, may also be helpful. The area should be protected and the patient encouraged to become aware of when he or she is scratching.

The itching and inflammation may be treated with a lotion or steroid cream applied to the affected area of the skin. Peeling ointments, such as those containing salicylic acid, may be used on thickened lesions. Soaps or lotions containing coal tar may be recommended.

Differential Diagnosis of Lichen Simplex Chronicus

This disorder can be differentiated from plaque-like lesions such as psoriasis (redder lesions having whiter scales on the elbows, knees, and scalp and nail findings), lichen planus (violaceous, usually smaller polygonal papules), and nummular (coin-shaped) dermatitis. Lichen simplex chronicus may complicate chronic atopic dermatitis.

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