Symptoms of lichen planus
The symptoms of lichen planus vary, depending on which area of the body is affected.
Areas of the body most commonly affected by the condition include the:
skin
mouth
penis
vulva (external female sex organs) and vagina
Lichen planus of the skin
The symptoms of lichen planus of the skin are:
purple-red coloured bumps (papules) that are slightly raised, shiny and have a flat top. The papules usually measure 3-5mm in diameter and may also have irregular white streaks (Wickham’s striae)
thicker scaly patches can appear, usually around the ankles – this is known as hypertrophic lichen planus
itchy skin
Lichen planus of the skin often affects the wrists, ankles and lower back, although other parts of the body can also be affected.
Thickened (hypertrophic) lichen planus affects the shins, and ring-shaped lichen planus affects creases in the skin, such as the armpits.
After the papules have cleared, the affected area of skin can sometimes become discoloured.
Lichen planus of the mouth (oral lichen planus)
The symptoms of oral lichen planus are:
a white pattern on the tongue and inner cheeks
red and white patches in the mouth
burning and discomfort in the mouth while eating or drinking
painful red gums
Mild cases of oral lichen planus don’t usually cause any pain or discomfort.
Lichen planus of the penis
The symptoms of lichen planus of the penis are:
purple or white ring-shaped patches on the tip of the penis (glans)
bumps (papules) that are flat-topped and shiny
a non-itchy rash
Lichen planus of the vulva and vagina
The symptoms of lichen planus of the vulva and vagina include:
soreness, burning and rawness around the vulva
the vulva may be covered in white streaks and be a red, pink or pale white colour
if the vagina is affected, sexual intercourse can be painful
if the outer layers of skin break down, moist, red patches can form
scar tissue can form, which distorts the shape of the vagina
a sticky yellow or green discharge, which may be bloodstained
the opening of the vagina can become narrowed
Other areas
Lichen planus can sometimes affect other areas, including:
the nails – which can become thinner, ridged and grooved, or they may become darker, thicker or raised; they may sometimes shed or stop growing
the scalp – red patches can appear around clusters of hair; in some cases, permanent hair loss can occur