What is lichen striatus?
Lichen striatus is an acquired, asymptomatic, and self-limited linear inflammatory skin disorder that predominantly affects children [1,2]. The eruption is typically unilateral, most often involving the extremities, and follows the lines of Blaschko in a continuous or interrupted pattern.
How do you treat lichen striatus?
Because lichen striatus is a self-limited disorder and because the lesions spontaneously regress within 3-12 months, no treatment is needed. The patient and family should be reassured. However, emollients and topical steroids may be used to treat associated dryness and pruritus, if present.
Is lichen striatus an autoimmune disease?
Some scientists have suggested that lichen striatus is an autoimmune response to inflamed T cells. Environmental stimuli, such as infection or trauma, have also been implicated in its pathogenesis, as cases in unrelated individuals have been described.
Is lichen striatus cancerous?
Lichen striatus is benign and self-resolving and does not require extensive investigations or treatment.
Where does lichen striatus come from?
The cause of lichen striatus is unknown. Possibly genetic factors or environmental triggers have a role to play in its development. The eruption affects the lines of Blaschko, which are thought to be embryonic in origin. Over 50% of cases occur in children aged between 5 and 15 years.
What are Blaschkos?
Blaschko lines are consistently V-shaped on the upper spine, S-shaped on the abdomen, inverted U-shaped from the breast area to the upper arm, and perpendicular down the front and back of the lower extremities. They never cross the anterior truncal midline but run along it.
What rash is linear?
Lichen striatus is an uncommon self-limiting skin rash that occurs mainly in children. It presents as pink raised spots that join together to form one or more dull red slightly scaly linear bands.
Is lichen striatus itchy?
Sometimes it can be itchy. This is most common on the arms and legs, but can also appear on the face, neck, trunk or buttocks. This rash is common in school-aged children.
Is lichen striatus genetic?
Is lichen striatus hereditary?
Are Blaschkos lines real?
Blaschko’s lines, also called the lines of Blaschko, named after German dermatologist Alfred Blaschko, are lines of normal cell development in the skin. These lines are invisible under normal conditions.
Can I see my blaschko lines?
Blaschko’s lines or the lines of Blaschko are a series of stripes found on human and other animal skin. The lines follow the path of embryonic skin cell migration. Normally, the lines are not visible under ordinary light. However, they may be viewed under black or ultraviolet light.