Diagnosis And Treatment of Lichen Planus

Our dermatologist Harley Street London can diagnose and treat lichen planus if you have it. Why not schedule a visit today.

How is the diagnosis done?

By physical examination of your skin, a dermatologist can often tell if you have lichen planus. But to be sure, he/she may remove a bit of skin for microscopic examination. It may be called a biopsy. Blood tests may be required sometimes to be sure it is lichen planus and not other diseases.

It might interest you to know that dentists often see lichen planus in the mouth during dental checkups.

Book an appointment with Clearskin London today for proper diagnosis of lichen planus.

So, how’s lichen planus treated?

Lichen planus has no cure! It often disappears by itself. In cases where symptoms are worrisome, treatment can soothe the pains and expedite healing. Treatment for lichen planus on the skin are:

• Retinoic acid – This may be rubbed on the skin or taken as a pill to clear off bumps
• Tacrolimus ointment or pimecrolimus cream – Treats skin problems like eczema
• Antihistamines – Provides soothing relief to itching
• Topical corticosteroid – This cream or ointment is applied to the skin to reduce redness and swelling
• PUVA therapy – A light treatment that can clear off bumps from the skin
• Corticosteroid – Including pills like prednisone or shots for treating long-term lichen planus or several bumps, or painful sores

Consult our dermatologist Harley Street London to know if there are side effects of these medicines.

When is treatment necessary?

Oral lichen planus causes no pains or other symptoms. Thus, no necessary treatment is required. But when lichen planus brings about ulcers, sores, burning, blisters, or redness, it requires treatment and can be treated.

Some treatment medications can be in pill or cream form.

Good dental hygiene is important. This is to keep away any mouth disease that can cause gum disease. Clean and floss your teeth regularly and as recommended by your dentist. Don’t fail to keep your dental appointment and get cleanings at least two times a year.

Result

A lot of skin lichen planus cases disappear in 2 years. Every 1 in 5 persons stands a chance to be re-infected. This skin problem may come and go for years in other persons.

Dark brown spots are indicative of a healing lichen planus. Just like the bumps, these spots may disappear with no treatment. If it doesn’t, your dermatologist London can help you lighten the dark spots with creams or other treatment options.

Bear in mind that oral lichen planus can be difficult to treat and often lasts longer than lichen planus on the skin.

However, at the Dermatology Clinic London, we can help you with oral or skin lichen planus treatment. Just book an appointment with us today.