Causes and risk factors
Exact cause of Lichen nitidus is not known. It is caused by abnormal inflammatory changes in cells of skin. As a result of inflammation, WBC i.e. T lymphocytes are activated. Cause of inflammation is unknown. Children and young adults are mostly affected. It is seen to be associated with diseases like Lichen planus, Atopic dermatitis, amenorrhoea, Crohn’s disease, tuberculosis, Down’s syndrome, HIV infection, Juvenile chronic arthritis, Congenital megacolon.
Clinical presentation
Many times patient is asymptomatic. Tiny, flat-topped skin coloured bumps or papules on the surface of the skin. The eruption can be of a size from pinpoint to pin head size. Usually seen on forearms, knees, back of hands, soles, chest, glans penis, and abdomen. Normally the eruption is localized. Itching is seen rarely.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and Clinical examination by the dermatologist helps in diagnosis. Skin biopsy may be taken for further evaluation.
Treatment
Most cases do not require treatment since the condition is self limiting. If there is excessive itching or if it is bothering the patient cosmetically the doctor may recommend antihistamines for itching, Corticosteroids for the inflammation associated with the lichen nitidus, topical ointments. Phototherapy may be used in some cases to clear lichen nitidus.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating lichen nitidus. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating lichen nitidus.
