Lichen Planus

Lichen planus (lai-kuhn-play-nuhs) is a common skin rash with bumps (lesions). It’s usually on the legs and wrists or in the mouth, but it can be anywhere. It can also be in 2 places at the same time.

• The rash is not contagious. Your child can’t get it from someone or spread it to others. 
• The cause of the rash is unknown.

Signs and Symptoms

• Bumps on the body are:
  • Itchy
  • Shiny, flat, and reddish-purple.
  • Clustered together in patches or spread out.

Diagnosis

Your child will have a physical exam. Their doctor or health care provider may also take a small sample (biopsy) of the rash to test.

Treatment

• Lichen planus can go away on its own without treatment, but this may take months to years.
• To relieve skin itching:
  • Put a cool, moist cloth over the rash.
  • The doctor or health care provider may recommend a steroid cream. They will tell you how much to use and when.
• If your child has sore mouth lesions, they should:
  • Avoid drinks and foods that could irritate the mouth, like caffeine, hot spices, citrus (lemon, lime, orange, and pineapple), and mouthwashes with alcohol.
  • Make sure they keep brushing their teeth and go to the dentist regularly.

What to Watch for at Home

• The rash can take months to years to go away with or without treatment. Over time, the color will slowly darken and fade before the lesions disappear.
• It is not common, but lichen planus can come back after it has healed.

Lichen Planus (PDF)

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