Lichen Planus is a common inflammatory skin disease of unknown origin that usually affects the skin but may also involve nails, oral cavity or genitalia. It is characterized by flat-topped, polygonal, violaceous papules usually found on the wrists, ankles, and inner aspect of forearms.
Causes Of Lichenoid Keratoses
The exact causes of Lichenoid keratoses are still unknown but research suggests it may be an autoimmune reaction in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Some potential factors that may trigger Lichenoid keratoses include:
- Immune system problems: Research shows Lichenoid keratoses may be due to a cell-mediated immune response against basal keratinocytes in the skin.
- Hepatitis C infection: There appears to be an association between hepatitis C virus infection and Lichen Planus Lichenoid keratoses. The virus may trigger the autoimmune response.
- Medications: Certain drugs like beta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and antimalarials have been linked to Lichenoid keratoses in some cases.
- Dental metals: Exposure to dental amalgam fillings, gold crowns, or other metals in the mouth may cause oral Lichenoid keratoses in some individuals.
Symptoms Of Lichen Planus
The common symptoms of Lichenoid keratoses include:
- Itchy purple, red, or brown, flat-topped, bumpy rash on the wrists, ankles, lower back, and inner aspect of the forearms.
- White lesions in the mouth (oral Lichenoid keratoses).
- White ridges on the fingernails or toenails.
- Painful small blisters or sores in the genital area (genital Lichenoid keratoses).
The rash and oral lesions can come and go and may alternate between quiet and active phases. Itching and soreness are very common.
Diagnosis And Tests For Lichenoid Keratoses
Diagnosis is usually made based on the characteristic medical history and skin findings during examination. A skin biopsy may help confirm the diagnosis by showing a distinctive inflammatory infiltrate in the affected area.
Other tests done include:
- Blood tests to rule out viral infections like hepatitis C.
- Direct immunofluorescence to detect deposits of immune proteins at skin lesion sites.
- Dental examination if oral cavity is affected.
Treatment Of Lichen Planus
The treatment depends on the severity and location of symptoms. Mild cases may require no more than topical corticosteroid creams applied 2-3 times daily. More severe cases are treated with:
- Oral corticosteroids like prednisone for extensive skin involvement.
- Antiviral medications for Lichenoid keratoses associated with hepatitis C infection.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs like acetaminophen for itching and pain relief.
- Topical tacrolimus or pimecrolimus cream for resistant cases.
- Oral retrovirals for Lichenoid keratoses in HIV patients.
- Laser surgery for oral lesions.
The goal is to control itching, pain and progression. Treatment may be needed for several months as Lichenoid keratoses has a tendency to recur. Patients should see a dermatologist regularly for management.
Impact On Business And Economy
While Lichenoid keratoses itself is not life-threatening, it can negatively impact quality of life and work productivity due to symptoms like itching, pain and discomfort. Oral Lichenoid keratoses may severely affect eating and speaking abilities. The exact economic burden is unknown but includes:
- Loss of work hours/absence due to flare-ups requiring medical care.
- Costs of frequent doctor visits, topical and oral medications, biopsies and laser treatments.
- Disability costs for severe cases causing inability to perform job duties.
- Psychological impact like low self-esteem, stress and depression affecting work performance.
- High turnover and loss of skilled employees in jobs involving oral tasks.
- Significant absenteeism accounting according to some reports.
As a chronic recurrent disease, Lichen Planus can impose both direct medical costs and indirect costs to employers and national economies over the long run if not properly managed. Further research is still needed regarding its full financial impact.
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Author Bio:
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163 )
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
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