Lichen Nitidus

Lichen Nitidus

It is an infrequent skin disease characterized by the appearance of small, skin-coloured and glistening bumps on the skin surface. This usually occur as a result of abnormal inflammatory activities in the cells of skin but inflammation is caused by unknown cause. Children and young adults  typically develops this condition.

Symptoms

Symptoms include:LICHEN NITIDUS SYMPTOMS CAUSES TREATMENT

  • Pinpoint to pinhead sized bumps
  • Flat on top or round in shape
  • Skin coloured bumps or sometimes pink in colour
  • Mostly located on abdomen, arms and genital areas, including the penis. Bumps rarely occur on the palm.
  • Sometimes intense itching
  • Some severe cases can lead to fever and oozing pus from rashes.
Causes

Main cause is not known till now. Inflammation is controlled by T lymphocytes (WBCs) which result in the formation of papules on skin. This condition is also associated with atopic dermatitis, lichen planus, Crohn’s disease etc.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of this condition depends upon detailed medical history and complete general physical examination of the patient. Other test include:

  • Skin biopsy
Treatment

Treatment options include:

  • Medications include corticosteroids, retinoids and antihistamines
  • Topical medications include tacrolimus (Protopic) to suppress immunity.
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