Lotti T, Buggiani G, Prignano F. Prurigo nodularis and lichen simplex chronicus. Dermatologic therapy. 2008 Jan;21(1):42-6. Lynch PJ. Lichen simplex chronicus (atopic/neurodermatitis) of the anogenital region. Dermatologic therapy. 2004 Mar;17(1):8-19. Patrick Ireland, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia. Copy edited by Gus Mitchell. Lichen simplex. 2022; Available at: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/lichen-simplex/. Accessed -02-13, 2024. (20) Image Source: Jack Jerjian / Medical Images. Picture of Lichen Simplex Chronicus. Available at: https://www.emedicinehealth.com/image-gallery/lichen_simplex_chronicus_picture/images.htm. Accessed -02-13, 2024. (21) Jason Schoenfeld MD, William D James MD. Lichen Simplex Chronicus Clinical Presentation. 2020; Available at: https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1123423-clinical?form=fpf#b2. Accessed -02-13, 2024.

Lichen Simplex Chronicus

Author's details

Dr. Khashau Eleburuike
MBBS (Ilorin) MSc. Global Health Karolinska Institute.
Resident doctor in family medicine in Northern Sweden.

Reviewer's details

Dr Gboyega Olarinoye
MBBS, FMCP.
Dermatologist at FMC Keffi Nassarawa State. Nigeria

Lichen Simplex Chronicus

Background

Lichen simplex chronicus in darker-skinned individuals often appears as thickened, scaly patches that may cause darkening (hyperpigmentation) or lightening (hypopigmentation) of the skin due to chronic scratching. It commonly affects areas like the neck, arms, or legs, resulting in intense itching and toughened skin. Treatment focuses on reducing itching and inflammation with topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, and moisturizing creams, while behavioral therapies or occlusive dressings may help prevent further scratching.

Lesion image

Picture of Skin Diseases and Problems – Lichen Simplex Chronicus (emedicinehealth.com) Image Source: Jack Jerjian / Medical Images

Lichen Simplex Chronicus Clinical Presentation: History, Physical Examination, Complications (medscape.com)

References

Lotti T, Buggiani G, Prignano F. Prurigo nodularis and lichen simplex chronicus. Dermatologic therapy. 2008 Jan;21(1):42-6.
Lynch PJ. Lichen simplex chronicus (atopic/neurodermatitis) of the anogenital region. Dermatologic therapy. 2004 Mar;17(1):8-19.
Patrick Ireland, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia. Copy edited by Gus Mitchell. Lichen simplex. 2022; Available at: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/lichen-simplex/. Accessed -02-13, 2024.
(20) Image Source: Jack Jerjian / Medical Images. Picture of Lichen Simplex Chronicus. Available at: https://www.emedicinehealth.com/image-gallery/lichen_simplex_chronicus_picture/images.htm. Accessed -02-13, 2024.
(21) Jason Schoenfeld MD, William D James MD. Lichen Simplex Chronicus Clinical Presentation. 2020; Available at: https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1123423-clinical?form=fpf#b2. Accessed -02-13, 2024.