Lichen planus

Definition

Lichen planus is an inflammatory disease of skin and mucous membranes characterised by intense inflammation at the interface between epidermis/epithelium and dermis/corium. Its clinical manifestations vary according to how acutely it develops and to where it attacks. On the skin it typically presents as a symmetrical eruption of itchy, flat-topped pink or purple papules or plaques. Involvement of the scalp or nail matrix can produce permanent loss of hair or nails respectively. Although mucous membrane involvement can be asymptomatic, it can cause significant pain and distress, particularly when it is erosive.

9 subordinate codes

• EA91.0Acute eruptive lichen planus
• EA91.1Hypertrophic lichen planus
• EA91.2Follicular lichen planus
• EA91.3Lichen planus of genital skin and mucous membranes
• EA91.4Lichen planus and lichenoid reactions of oral mucosa
• EA91.5Lichen planus of the nails
• EA91.6Subacute lichen planus
• 4B4YOther specified diseases of the immune system
• 4B4ZDiseases of the immune system, unspecified

Nearby in Papulosquamous dermatoses

• EA90Psoriasis
• EA92Lichenoid dermatoses
• EA93Pityriasis lichenoides
• EA94Pityriasis rubra pilaris
• EA95Small plaque parapsoriasis