Lichen simplex chronicus

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Kiran Singh, M.D. [2]

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List of terms related to Lichen simplex chronicus

Overview

Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC) is a skin disorder characterized by chronic itching and scratching. The constant scratching causes thick, leathery, brownish skin.

Classification

• [Disease name] may be classified according to [classification method] into [number] subtypes:

• [group1]
• [group2]
• [group3]

• Other variants of [disease name] include [disease subtype 1], [disease subtype 2], and [disease subtype 3].

Pathophysiology

• The pathogenesis of [disease name] is characterized by [feature1], [feature2], and [feature3].
• The [gene name] gene/Mutation in [gene name] has been associated with the development of [disease name], involving the [molecular pathway] pathway.
• On gross pathology, [feature1], [feature2], and [feature3] are characteristic findings of [disease name].
• On microscopic histopathological analysis, [feature1], [feature2], and [feature3] are characteristic findings of [disease name].

Causes

This is a skin disorder characterized by a self-perpetuating scratch-itch cycle:

• It may begin with something that rubs, irritates, or scratches the skin, such as clothing.
• This causes the person to rub or scratch the affected area. Constant scratching causes the skin to thicken.
• The thickened skin itches, causing more scratching, causing more thickening.

The skin may become leathery and brownish in the affected area. This disorder may be associated with atopic dermatitis (eczema) or psoriasis. It may also be associated with nervousness, anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders.

It is common in children, who chronically scratch insect bites and other areas. It can also be common in mentally retarded children who have chronic repetitive movements.

Diagnosis

Physical Examination

Skin

Extremity

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  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

• 

  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

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  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

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  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

• 

  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

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  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

Neck

• 

  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

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  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

Trunk

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  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

• 

  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

Genitalia

• 

  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

• 

  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

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  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

• 

  Lichen simplex. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.

Treatment

Treatment is aimed at reducing itching and minimizing existing lesions because rubbing and scratching cause LSC. The itching and inflammation may be treated with a lotion or steroid cream applied to the affected area of the skin.

See also

• Pruritus