Main Causes of Lichen Planus Pigmentosus: Understanding Causes And Triggers

Lichen planus pigmentosus is a relatively rare variant of the inflammatory skin condition lichen planus. The first case of this condition was reported in 1974 in India, and it has since been found to be prevalent in several countries.

The symptoms of this condition begin to develop internally before they appear on the skin. At first, small black or brown spots appear that eventually merge to form large, irregular, and dark patches. The onset of these symptoms is common among adults around 30.

Lichen planus is a condition that affects the hair, skin, nails and mucous membranes. It usually appears as itchy, flat, purplish bumps on the skin. In the vagina, mouth and other areas covered by mucous membranes, lichen planus forms lacy white patches, with painful sores in some cases. The condition can cause significant itching in the affected areas.

In accordance with the journal Oral Diseases, the global pooled prevalence of oral lichen planus was 1.01%. The highest prevalence was reported from Europe (1.43%) and the lowest was reported from India (0.49%), where tobacco‐associated keratosis (growth of keratin) appeared to mask oral lichen planus. This resulted in the attenuation of its prevalence. Lichen planus can occur at any age. However, according to the American Academy of Oral Medicine, women over the age of 50 are most commonly affected. It is not contagious in nature; hence it does not spread from one person to another.

This article explores the various triggers and causes of lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP) and provides tips for managing and preventing this lichen planus skin condition.

Genetic Factors

Genetic factors are believed to play a role in the pathogenesis of this skin condition. Instances of LPP prevalent in families have been found. People with darker skin are more susceptible to it. Researchers have discovered some genes associated with this condition. More research, however, is required for surety.

Environmental Triggers

Certain environmental factors have been found to trigger this skin condition. These triggers may act as the causes of lichen planus pigmentosus, including:

• Sun exposure: parts of the body frequently exposed to the sun are more prone to this condition. Thus, lichen planus is thought to be triggered by UV (ultraviolet) light.
• Skin injuries might play a role in triggering this condition.
• Exposure to certain chemicals or medications can also act as lichen planus causes.

Immune System and Autoimmune Connections

LPP is believed to have an autoimmune origin. However, the trigger and procedure of the autoimmune response that leads to lichen planus pigmentosus are still unknown. Studies have found that the causes of lichen planus include the action of the immune system against one’s own cells, leading to an inflammatory response. However, the mechanism and inducing factor of this response need to be identified.

Medications and Other Diseases

Taking certain medications and exposure to some chemicals can also trigger the pathogenesis of lichen planus pigmentosus. Some instances include:

• Certain vaccines
• Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Medicines used to treat heart conditions, high blood pressure, and arthritis
• Certain chemicals, pigments, or metals
• Suffering from hepatitis C

Lichen Planus Pigmentosus Causes

The causes of lichen planus pigmentosus are still unknown. Some triggers and contributing factors have been identified, however.

Specific Triggers for Lichen Planus Pigmentosus

The prominent triggers for LPP are listed below:

• Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light
• Viral infections
• Skin injuries
• Hepatitis C
• Certain medications
• Skin contact with products like amla oil and mustard oil

Causes of Lichen Planus in Different Areas

Lichen planus mainly manifests along the forehead, neck, arms, and other areas frequently exposed to the skin. It may also develop along the torso or other parts where the skin rubs together, like the inner thighs or armpits.

Lichen planus pigmentosus is prevalent in sun-exposed parts of the body. In some cases, occurrence in the oral mucosa and body parts with skin folds like the groin is also observed. However, unlike lichen planus, LPP does not affect the nails, palms, and soles.

Causes of Oral Lichen Planus

Lichen planus causes in the mouth are unknown. It seems to develop similarly as the condition does along the skin. Sometimes, oral lichen planus is accompanied by skin lesions. Females have been found to be more prone to this condition than men and people in their 30s and 40s are usually more affected.

To determine the cause of oral lichen planus or lichen planus in your case, you can visit a specialist. At we offer a thorough diagnosis and go through the potential factors that triggered this condition in your case. Based on our observations, we then suggest the best-suited treatment options for you. Consult with our expert professionals to manage the lichen planus skin condition.

How to Stop Lichen Planus from Spreading

Follow these tips on how to stop lichen planus from spreading:

• Keep the rash clean and covered.
• Use a cold compress on the rash
• Quit smoking, drinking alcohol, and chewing tobacco
• Do not scratch the rashes
• Brush your teeth twice a day
• Floss daily
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent any triggering factors
• Follow a healthy diet and limit the intake of foods containing sugar, oil, caffeine, or citrus if you have oral lichen planus
• Take measures for stress management; stress and mental health conditions can worsen lichen planus

Preventive Measures for Lichen Planus Pigmentosus

There is no definite way to prevent this lichen planus. You can, however, take these measures to avoid the potential triggers:

• Avoid skin injuries
• Maintain a good oral hygiene
• Eat healthy, including fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables
• Limit stress and engage in relaxing activities

Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies

Some lifestyle adjustments and remedies can aid you in managing the lichen planus skin condition. A few tips are listed below:

• Moisturize the rashes using aloe vera gel. It is known to relieve the symptoms of this condition.
• Apply oatmeal paste to the affected areas. Grind the oatmeal using a blender and mix it with lukewarm water to form a thick paste. Cover the rashes with this paste before wiping it off after 10 to 15 minutes. Oatmeal contains gluten, which can relieve rashes and itchiness.
• Consult with a doctor about using antihistamines to relieve the inflammatory symptoms, including itching.
• Use over-the-counter ointments like hydrocortisone to help with itchiness and pain.

Personal Experiences with Lichen Planus

(More information needed for the section)

How I Cured My Lichen Planus

Autoimmune Diseases and Lichen Planus

Lichen planus pigmentosus is an autoimmune condition. While the triggers and mechanism of pathogenesis for this condition are unknown, some observations have been made regarding it. In lichen planus, the immune cells in the body attack the cells of the skin and the mucus membrane, causing skin lesions. Some studies have also found that T-lymphocytes (immune cells) and autoantibodies (antibodies acting against one’s cells) are associated with the condition.

What Autoimmune Disease Causes Lichen Planus

The autoimmune disease causing lichen planus is not known yet. It is, however, associated with conditions like type 1 diabetes mellitus, alopecia areata, autoimmune thyroiditis, celiac disease, Sjogren’s syndrome, dermatomyositis, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Consult a Lichen Planus Expert Now

Managing and eliminating lichen planus on your own can be challenging. Seeking the help and guidance of a professional can, therefore, make it easier to deal with this condition. Consult a lichen planus expert now to manage the symptoms, prevent the condition from worsening, and eliminate it altogether.

How to Book a Consultation

At Dr Batra’s®, booking a consultation call with our experts is simple. Reach out to us to make an appointment. Visit the clinic on the scheduled date and time and resolve your worries and queries about lichen planus with our specialists.

What to Expect During the Consultation

A consultation with our specialists thoroughly assesses your symptoms, lifestyle and dietary habits, and overall physical and mental health. Based on their observation, our doctor might determine the lichen planus causes or triggers in your case. They then curate a personalised treatment plan, including premium homeopathic medications that heal your body from within. Our homeopathic treatments focus on managing and relieving the symptoms while eliminating lichen planus pigmentosus from the root.

FAQs