Pityriasis Lichenoides
On this page, you will find everything you are looking for regarding Pityriasis Lichenoides.
What is Pityriasis Lichenoides?
It is a rare skin disorder that appears as red, oval-shaped bumps or pimples covered with scales. It is more common in people under 30 years old, but it can occur at any age. The condition can vary in form, being either acute or chronic. In some cases, the bumps may disappear within 3–4 weeks, but can reappear.
- What are the symptoms of Pityriasis Lichenoides?
- Red spots or bumps on the skin, which may be flat or raised.
- Skin scales are forming around the bumps.
- Itching and a burning sensation of varying intensity, which may be mild or severe.
Small wounds or ulcers on some bumps, especially in acute cases of the disease.
What are the causes of Pityriasis Lichenoides?
The exact cause of Pityriasis Lichenoides is unknown, but it is believed that genetically predisposed individuals show an inappropriate immune response to an external factor, such as a virus or a medication, which leads to inflammation in the skin.
Pityriasis Lichenoides may be associated with various conditions, including streptococcus, HIV, chickenpox, Epstein-Barr virus, and Hepatitis C. Some medications, such as antihistamines, estrogen and progesterone therapy, and the measles vaccine, have also been linked to the disease.
Most of the time, no specific cause for the disease is identified.
What are the methods for diagnosing Pityriasis Lichenoides?
- The doctor takes the medical history and performs a clinical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
- Taking a small skin sample (biopsy) and examining it under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other diseases.
Laboratory tests may be conducted in some cases, where blood tests may be done to identify the presence of inflammation or infection.
What are the treatment methods for Pityriasis Lichenoides?
- Treatment involves several procedures or as needed, and may include the following:
- Antibiotics may be used in acute or chronic cases to reduce inflammation. They are used for up to threeUVBmonths, and in some cases longer. If there is no response to the antibiotic, light therapy is used.
- Ultraviolet B (UVB) therapy is used in chronic cases to improve the appearance of the skin and reduce symptoms. It is considered one of the most suitable types of treatment for chronic pityriasis lichenoides.
- Topical corticosteroids help relieve inflammation and itching and speed up the healing process.
Immunosuppressants, such as methotrexate, are used in severe cases that do not respond to conventional treatments.
What are the methods for preventing Pityriasis Lichenoides?
- Since the causes of the disease are unclear, prevention may be difficult. However, the severity of symptoms can be reduced by:
- Avoiding exposure to certain products that irritate the skin, such as harsh chemical products.
- Avoiding exposure to strong sunlight.
Keeping the skin clean and moisturized regularly.
- What are the complications of Pityriasis Lichenoides?
- Skin ulcers: Some bumps or pimples may develop into ulcers, especially in severe cases.
- Scars: The rash may sometimes leave permanent scars.
- Bacterial infection: Open bumps or pimples can lead to a bacterial infection if left untreated.
Psychological impact, especially when bumps or pimples appear in easily visible areas.
- When should you consult a doctor?
- When red bumps or scales appear without a clear cause and do not disappear within several days.
- If the symptoms are severe, such as intense itching or severe pain, or if the rash causes discomfort that affects sleep or daily activities.
- When the rash spreads to different areas of the body.
- If there is no response to treatment.
- If the bumps or pimples turn into open ulcers, there is a risk of bacterial infection.
If you experience fever and fatigue along with a skin rash.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is pityriasis lichenoides a contagious or infectious disease?
