Causes of Lichen Planus

Before looking at the causes, it is important to know who is prone to having this disease.

Who can contract lichen planus?

Well, anybody can be infected with lichen planus! It is a common occurrence with middle-aged adults. However, women are prone to oral lichen planus than men.

Now that you’ve known this, why not go for a skin checkup at our Dermatology Clinic London. The earlier, the better!
Call 020 71833648 to book an appointment.

What is responsible for lichen planus?

It is unclear what causes most of the cases of this disease. One postulation is that lichen planus is an auto-immune disease. What this means is that a person’s immune system reacts as if the skin and other body parts are foreign, causing it to attack itself! More research is needed to know if lichen planus is really auto-immune. However, we do know the following facts:

• Certain medications can trigger a rash similar to lichen planus – Medicines, including diuretics, which is used for treating high blood pressure and heart disease, and anti-malaria drugs can cause this disease. Ensure you discuss every medication you take with our dermatologist London
• Metal filling in the mouth – Although this is rare, it can still happen. A simple solution to it is by replacing the metal filling with a non-metal filling
• An uncommon type of lichen planus, familial bullous lichen planus, is present in families – Other types of lichen planus do not seem to run in families
• Hepatitis C virus may be linked with lichen planus – Several persons having hepatitis c also get lichen planus. Visit our Dermatology Clinic to know if you have the virus