Lichen Planus

Lichen planus is a skin disease that causes shiny, firm or reddish purple bumps to appear. Common areas include the wrist, lower back, ankles, nails and inside the mouth. In rare cases it appears on the scalp. The condition often clears within 2 years, but can reappear in 20 percent of cases.

When lichen planus appears on the skin, it can cause thick itchy patches of scaly skin. Inside the mouth, it often appears on the cheeks, tongue, lips and gums. Lichen planus in the mouth may lead to patches of tiny white dots and lines, redness and swelling and gum peeling. Dermatologists can treat lichen planus to minimize symptoms.

For more information, visit the American Academy of Dermatology at www.aad.org/skin-conditions