Lichen planus is a non-infectious, itchy rash that can affect many areas of the body including:
- the arms and legs
- the mouth (oral lichen planus)
- the nails and scalp
- the vulva, vagina and penis
The exact cause of lichen planus is unknown. However, the condition is not infectious and it does not run in families. It cannot be passed on to other people, including sexual partners.
How common is lichen planus?
It is estimated that lichen planus affects 1-2% of the population worldwide. The condition is more common in adults over 40 years of age.
Lichen planus of the skin affects men and woman equally. However, oral lichen planus is more common among females. In around 50% of all cases of lichen planus, the mouth is affected (oral lichen planus). See Lichen planus - symptoms for more information.
Outlook
There is no single treatment that can cure lichen planus completely. However, treatments are available that can help manage and control the condition’s symptoms and make living with it easier. For example, steroid creams are often used to help relieve the itch and control the rash.
Most cases of lichen planus of the skin clear up on their own within six to nine months. The rash rarely lasts longer than 18 months.
See Lichen planus - treatment for more information about the treatment options that are available for the condition.
Erosive lichen planus is a rare form of the condition that may last for a long time. It causes painful ulcers to develop in the mouth and in male and female genital areas.
See Lichen planus - complications for more information about erosive lichen planus.
