What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Blaschkoid Lichen Planus
• Blaschkoid LP
• Linear LP

What is Linear Lichen Planus? (Definition/Background Information)

• Linear Lichen Planus (LLP) is a rare form of lichen planus, which is a condition that affects the skin and/or mouth
• In LLP, specifically, affected people develop itchy, purple, flat-topped papules (bumps) in a linear distribution along the lines of Blaschko. Although these papules can be found anywhere on the body, they most commonly affect the limbs (arms and legs)
• The exact underlying cause of Linear Lichen Planus is unknown; however, it has been associated with metastatic cancer, HIV infection and hepatitis C infection
• Treatment is not always necessary as some cases of Linear Lichen Planus resolve on their own. Mild cases can often be managed with topical steroids, while more intensive therapies may be required for severe cases

(Source: Linear Lichen Planus; Genetic and Rare Disease Information Center (GARD) of National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NCATS), USA.)

Who gets Linear Lichen Planus? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Linear Lichen Planus is a rare condition that comprises less than 5% of all cases of lichen planus
• The presentation of symptoms often occur in childhood, although adults can be affected as well
• Both males and females may be affected
• Worldwide, individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Linear Lichen Planus? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Linear Lichen Planus may include the following health conditions:

• Hepatitis C viral infection
• HIV infection
• Malignant cancer

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Linear Lichen Planus? (Etiology)

The exact cause of Linear Lichen Planus is not known at the present time. However, the following conditions are reported to predispose an individual to Linear Lichen Planus:

• Infections caused by viruses such as hepatitis C virus and HIV
• Metastatic cancer

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Linear Lichen Planus?

The signs and symptoms of Linear Lichen Planus may vary in severity between affected individuals, and may include:

• Presence of itchy and purple skin lesions
• The lesions are observed as flat-topped papules (bumps)
• Their pattern of distribution is linear, along Blaschko lines
• Any part of the body skin may be affected including the mouth; most lesions are observed on the arms and legs

How is Linear Lichen Planus Diagnosed?

Linear Lichen Planus is diagnosed on the basis of the following information:

• Complete physical examination
• Thorough medical history evaluation
• Assessment of signs and symptoms
• Laboratory tests
• Imaging studies
• Biopsy studies

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Linear Lichen Planus?

The complications of Linear Lichen Planus may include:

• Severe scarring
• Low self-esteem

Complications may occur with or without treatment, and in some cases, due to treatment also.

How is Linear Lichen Planus Treated?

The treatment methods for Linear Lichen Planus are determined by the severity of signs and symptoms and include:

• Topical steroids
• Oral steroids
• Immune-suppresing medications

How can Linear Lichen Planus be Prevented?

The exact cause of Linear Lichen Planus is not known, and therefore, no preventive methods or guidelines are available at the present time.

• Identifying the triggers for the development of this condition may help prevent or reduce the signs and symptoms
• Active research is currently being performed to explore the possibilities for treatment and prevention of disorders such as Linear Lichen Planus

Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with tests and physical examinations are recommended.

What is the Prognosis of Linear Lichen Planus? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Linear Lichen Planus is dependent upon the severity of the signs and symptoms and associated complications, if any
• Individuals with mild conditions have better prognosis than those with severe symptoms and complications
• Typically, the prognosis may be assessed on a case-by-case basis

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Linear Lichen Planus:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/rare-disorders/