20

What are the latest advances in Lichen Planus?

Here you can see the latest advances and discoveries made regarding Lichen Planus.

Latest progress of Lichen Planus

Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects the skin, mucous membranes, hair, and nails. It is characterized by itchy, flat-topped, purple-colored bumps that can appear on various parts of the body. While the exact cause of lichen planus is unknown, it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells.



Over the years, there have been several advances in the understanding and management of lichen planus. These advancements have focused on improving diagnosis, treatment options, and understanding the underlying mechanisms of the disease.



1. Genetic and immunological research:


Researchers have made significant progress in identifying genetic and immunological factors associated with lichen planus. Studies have found certain genetic variations that may increase the risk of developing the condition. Additionally, there is evidence of immune system dysregulation, specifically involving T cells, which play a crucial role in the development of lichen planus lesions. Understanding these genetic and immunological aspects can help in developing targeted therapies.



2. Biomarkers for diagnosis:


Efforts have been made to identify specific biomarkers that can aid in the diagnosis of lichen planus. Biomarkers are measurable substances or indicators that can be detected in the body and provide information about a particular disease. Researchers have identified certain molecules, such as cytokines and chemokines, which are elevated in lichen planus patients. These biomarkers can potentially be used to improve diagnostic accuracy and differentiate lichen planus from other similar skin conditions.



3. Topical and systemic treatments:


Various treatment options are available for managing lichen planus, including topical and systemic medications. Topical corticosteroids remain the mainstay of treatment, providing relief from itching and reducing inflammation. However, long-term use of corticosteroids may have side effects. Therefore, researchers have been exploring alternative topical treatments, such as calcineurin inhibitors and retinoids, which have shown promising results in clinical trials.


For severe or widespread cases of lichen planus, systemic therapies may be necessary. These include oral corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologic agents. Biologic agents, such as tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, have shown efficacy in treating lichen planus by targeting specific immune pathways. However, further research is needed to establish their long-term safety and effectiveness.



4. Laser therapy:


Laser therapy has emerged as a potential treatment option for lichen planus. Different types of lasers, including excimer lasers and fractional lasers, have been used to target and improve the appearance of lichen planus lesions. Laser therapy offers a non-invasive approach with minimal side effects and has shown promising results in reducing inflammation and promoting healing. However, more studies are needed to determine the optimal laser parameters and long-term outcomes.



5. Psychological support:


Recognizing the impact of lichen planus on patients' quality of life, psychological support has gained importance in the management of the condition. Living with a chronic skin condition can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and depression. Healthcare providers now emphasize the importance of addressing the psychological well-being of patients with lichen planus. Counseling, support groups, and educational resources are being provided to help patients cope with the emotional challenges associated with the disease.



In conclusion, significant advances have been made in the understanding and management of lichen planus. Genetic and immunological research has shed light on the underlying mechanisms, while the identification of biomarkers may improve diagnostic accuracy. Topical and systemic treatments, including novel therapies and laser therapy, offer new options for patients. Additionally, the recognition of psychological support as an integral part of care ensures a holistic approach to managing lichen planus.


Diseasemaps
2 answers
Translated from spanish Improve translation
the Last real headway and applied it on my person is the auto-hemoterapia there is no other treatment that offers a cure fast and effective

Posted Oct 12, 2017 by Carlos 2050

Latest progress of Lichen Planus

Lichen Planus life expectancy

What is the life expectancy of someone with Lichen Planus?

3 answers
Celebrities with Lichen Planus

Celebrities with Lichen Planus

1 answer
Is Lichen Planus hereditary?

Is Lichen Planus hereditary?

3 answers
Is Lichen Planus contagious?

Is Lichen Planus contagious?

4 answers
Natural treatment of Lichen Planus

Is there any natural treatment for Lichen Planus?

2 answers
ICD9 and ICD10 codes of Lichen Planus

ICD10 code of Lichen Planus and ICD9 code

3 answers
Living with Lichen Planus

Living with Lichen Planus. How to live with Lichen Planus?

2 answers
Lichen Planus diet

Lichen Planus diet. Is there a diet which improves the quality of life of p...

2 answers

World map of Lichen Planus

Find people with Lichen Planus through the map. Connect with them and share experiences. Join the Lichen Planus community.

Stories of Lichen Planus

LICHEN PLANUS STORIES
Lichen Planus stories
Mine began shortly after the second flu shot I received.  I had no reaction the first year.  At first, it was a few spots on my leg that were mistaken for staph infection. Antibiotics didn't help and it moved to my arm. Then the doctor thought it w...
Lichen Planus stories
About a year ago I was diagnosed with oral lichen planus; it's been a difficult few months; my mouth gets inflamed almost daily; I have been on cyclosporine for a year; it's a difficult medication to take because I have lots of side effects. My hands...
Lichen Planus stories
I had mark and spot comming all over my body. my hand bust open and my feet. i had alots of pain. i went to doctor after doctor and then i start reading about lichen planus,so i tried a cream call kiti kiti and fungus power together and it left my sk...
Lichen Planus stories
Successfully controlling with diet.   Have Kefir Grains if anybody wants to start making some.
Lichen Planus stories
My condition is not on this map yet. It is related to Lichen Planus but it is NOT Lichen Planus, it is Lichen Sclerosus (Sclerosis) It is a skin condition that can affect women and men but seems to mainly appear in women, all ages but more after meno...

Tell your story and help others

Tell my story

Lichen Planus forum

LICHEN PLANUS FORUM
Lichen Planus forum
Following are the symptoms of lichen planus:Lichen Planus symptoms may appear on skin, nails, mouth, scalp or genitals in one or more of the following ways. Round, irregular, thickened, flat-topped, dark skin lesionsPink, gray, brown or reddish erupt...
Lichen Planus forum
Lichen Planus is a skin disease that may also affect the other part of  your body. There are many treatment options for this skin disorder.  Treatment option for this skin disorder basically depends on the severity of the condition, so it i...

Ask a question and get answers from other users.

Ask a question

Find your symptoms soulmates

From now on you can add your symptoms in diseasemaps and find your symptoms soulmates. Symptoms soulmates are people with similar symptoms to you.

Symptoms soulmates

Add your symptoms and discover your soulmates map

Soulmates map