How does lichen planus develop?
Lichen planus occurs as a result of an abnormal immune reaction, possibly started by a viral infection. The immune system seems to mistakenly identify the skin cells as foreign and creates antibodies to attack them, causing the lesions characterized by the disorder. Although not the cause, stress may increase the risk of developing the disease. Often the onset of lichen planus is slow, taking months to reach its peak. The disease usually clears within 18 months, but can persist for many years. It is often diagnosed in combination with other autoimmune diseases, such as bullous pemphigoid, lupus and sarcoidosis. What are the symptoms of lichen planus? With lichen planus, a rash develops in patches on the lower back and on the inner surfaces of the wrists, forearms and ankles. The rash may appear suddenly or it may spread gradually over a period of a few months. Other symptoms include groups of small, shiny, pink or purple, flat-topped lesions on the skin, which can be covered in a netwo
