Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison	Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

	A	B	C	D	E	F	G	H	I	J	K	L	M	N	O	P	Q	R	S	T	U	V	W	X	Y	Z

Lichen simplex chronicus on the ankle	Lichen nitidus on the abdomen	Lichen simplex chronicus	Lichen simplex chronicus on the back

---

Overview	Symptoms	Treatment	Prevention

---

Lichen simplex chronicus

Treatment

The primary treatment is to stop scratching the skin. This may include counseling to become aware of the importance of not scratching, stress management, or behavior modification.

The itching and inflammation may be treated with a lotion or steroid cream applied to the affected area of the skin. Peeling ointments, such as those containing salicylic acid, may be used on thickened lesions. Soaps or lotions containing coal tar may be recommended.

Dressings that cover and protect the area may be used with or without topical medications. They are left in place for a week or more at a time.

Antihistamines, sedatives, or tranquilizers may be needed to reduce itching and to reduce stress. Steroids may be injected directly into lesions to reduce itching and inflammation.

Antidepressants and tranquilizers may be needed in those patients who have an emotional component to their lichen simplex chronicus.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Lichen simplex chronicus may be controlled by reducing stress and scratching. It may return or change sites.

Possible Complications

• Secondary bacterial skin infection
• Permanent scar formation
• Permanent changes in skin color

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, especially signs of skin infection such as pain, redness or drainage from the lesion, or fever.

Review Date: 10/29/2004
Reviewed By: Jonathan Kantor, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

_{The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.}