Patient Case: Scaling Papular Lesions
A 28-year-old woman presents to the dermatology clinic with a three-month history of itchy, scaly, red papules on her forearms, lower legs, and upper back. The lesions started as small bumps but gradually became more numerous and have a rough, scaly texture. She reports that the rash worsens after sun exposure and that she occasionally experiences mild burning or stinging sensations.
She denies fever, joint pain, or systemic symptoms but has a history of atopic dermatitis as a child. She has not used any new skincare products or medications. Examination reveals multiple well-demarcated, erythematous papules with fine scaling, some coalescing into plaques. The lesions spare the palms, soles, and mucous membranes. There is no evidence of vesicles, pustules, or ulceration.
A diagnosis of lichen planus with papulosquamous eruption is considered. A skin biopsy is recommended for confirmation, and the patient is started on a regimen of topical corticosteroids and antihistamines for symptom relief. She is advised to avoid potential triggers, including excessive sun exposure and harsh soaps.
- What is the most likely diagnosis for this patient’s condition?
a) Psoriasis
b) Lichen planus
c) Tinea corporis
d) Atopic dermatitis - Which clinical feature is most characteristic of lichen planus?
a) Vesicles with purulent discharge
b) Coin-shaped plaques with central clearing
c) Well-demarcated, erythematous papules with fine scaling and pruritus
d) Yellow, greasy scales on the scalp and eyebrows - Which test can confirm the diagnosis of lichen planus?
a) KOH preparation
b) Wood’s lamp examination
c) Skin biopsy
d) Patch testing - What is the first-line treatment for lichen planus?
a) Systemic antibiotics
b) Topical corticosteroids and antihistamines
c) Oral antifungals
d) Phototherapy only
Answers
- (b) Lichen planus
- The pruritic, erythematous, scaling papular lesions with a chronic course and possible post-inflammatory pigmentation strongly suggest lichen planus, a papulosquamous disorder.
- (c) Well-demarcated, erythematous papules with fine scaling and pruritus
- Lichen planus presents with violaceous, pruritic, polygonal papules with fine scales. It commonly affects the wrists, legs, back, and oral mucosa.
- (c) Skin biopsy
- A skin biopsy is the gold standard for confirming lichen planus, showing characteristic hyperkeratosis, band-like lymphocytic infiltration, and basal layer degeneration.
- (b) Topical corticosteroids and antihistamines
- First-line treatment includes topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and antihistamines to manage itching. In severe cases, systemic corticosteroids or phototherapy may be needed.
