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 or Neurodermatitis
Lichen simplex chronicus (neurodermatitis) 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 and rubbing. It commonly affects areas like the neck, arms, or legs, resulting in intense itching, thickened and toughened skin. Treatment focuses on breaking the itching and inflammation cycle with topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, and moisturizing creams, while behavioral therapies that focuses on stress management or occlusive dressings or physical barriers may help prevent further scratching and further skin damage. alongside techniques like stress management and using physical barriers to prevent further skin damage.
- 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.
