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

• Localised Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes
• Localized Lichen Myxoedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes

What is Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes? (Definition/Background Information)

• Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes is an atypical form of lichen myxedematosus, which is a rare skin abnormality characterised by mucin deposition in the skin
• In this mixed subtype, the features of any of the five localized forms of lichen myxedematosus (papular mucinosis) are noted. These may include the discrete papular type, the acral persistent type, the self-healing type, cutaneous mucinosis of infancy, and the nodular-type of lichen myxedematosus
• Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes is a highly-uncommon skin condition that presents tiny skin-colored papules anywhere on the body skin. The condition may be seen in children or adults
• The exact cause of development of Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes is currently unknown. It may be due to an abnormal immune system
• The condition is usually diagnosed by a skin biopsy. Following its diagnosis, if necessary, a treatment of the condition is undertaken. However, in many cases, Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes is a self-resolving skin condition
• The treatment measures may include light therapy, use of topical creams, dermabrasion, and intralesional injections. The prognosis of Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes is usually good, in a majority of individuals

Who gets Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes is an extremely rare skin condition that may be diagnosed in children and adults
• Both males and females are affected
• All racial and ethnic groups are affected and no predilection is reported

What are the Risk Factors for Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes? (Predisposing Factors)

• Specific risk factors for Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes are presently unknown

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 Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes formation is generally unknown. It may be due to an abnormal immune function that typically involves the skin (not a systemic condition)
• It is a non-contagious condition that cannot spread from one individual to another. This means that one cannot get the condition through direct contact or by being in close proximity to an individual having the condition

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes?

The signs and symptoms of Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes may include:

• Presence of numerous small papules on skin
• The skin lesions are firm and flesh-colored
• A papule is an area of abnormal skin tissue that is less than 1 centimeter around. Usually a papule has distinct borders, and it can appear in a variety of shapes
• The papules can be present anywhere on the body, including on the arms and legs, chest and back, and trunk region
• Thickening of skin may be observed

How is Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes Diagnosed?

Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes may be diagnosed through the following tools:

• Complete physical examination with evaluation of medical history
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Skin biopsy: A skin biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis
• A differential diagnosis may be undertaken to exclude scleromyxedema (that presents systemic symptoms) and other localized forms of papular mucinosis

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 Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes?

The complications of Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes may include:

• Scratching or itching of the lesions may lead to bleeding and ulceration. This can cause secondary bacterial or fungal infections to develop
• Emotional stress due to cosmetic concerns

How is Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes Treated?

Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes is difficult to treat, but can resolve spontaneously on its own, like all localized cutaneous forms of papular mucinosis. In case the condition does not get better, then the following treatment options may be considered:

• Use of topical steroids and oral retinoid
• Psoralen and ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy
• Dermabrasion
• CO2 laser therapy
• Intralesional steroid injections and intralesional hyaluronidase injections
• Newer treatment methods, such as topical tacrolimus creams, have been shown to be successful in some cases
• Symptomatic and supportive therapy, if needed

How can Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes be Prevented?

Current medical research has not established a method of preventing the occurrence of Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes.

What is the Prognosis of Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes is generally good with adequate treatment
• Also, in many cases, the condition is known to be self-limiting and gets better on its own without the need for any treatment

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Localized Lichen Myxedematosus with Mixed Features of Different Subtypes:

• Do not pick or scratch the skin lesions
• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition