A chronic autoimmune inflammatory condition affecting skin, mouth, nails, and scalp — diagnosed accurately and treated with immunomodulatory precision at DermaVue's 7 clinics across Kerala & Tamil Nadu.
7 clinics · Kerala & Tamil Nadu · ₹300 consultation
Lichen planus is a condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks the skin, mouth lining, nails, or scalp — causing itchy purple bumps, painful mouth sores, or nail damage. It is not caused by infection and is absolutely not contagious. In Indian skin, lichen planus frequently leaves behind stubborn dark patches (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) that persist long after the active disease resolves. The good news: lichen planus is very treatable. DermaVue dermatologists use a combination of potent topical steroids, phototherapy, and systemic immunomodulators to control flares, relieve symptoms, and prevent pigmentary complications — all tailored to your skin type and disease pattern.
Lichen planus is a T-cell–mediated autoimmune inflammatory dermatosis characterised by the "5 Ps": pruritic, polygonal, planar (flat-topped), purple papules and plaques. Histopathologically, it demonstrates a band-like (lichenoid) lymphocytic infiltrate at the dermoepidermal junction with Civatte bodies (apoptotic keratinocytes), irregular acanthosis (sawtooth pattern), wedge-shaped hypergranulosis, and Max Joseph spaces. Wickham striae — fine white reticular lines visible on dermoscopy — are pathognomonic. The condition affects cutaneous surfaces, oral mucosa (40–70% of patients), nails (10%), and scalp (lichen planopilaris). Lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP), a variant disproportionately common in Fitzpatrick IV–VI skin, presents with diffuse hyperpigmented macules without preceding inflammatory papules — a major concern in the Indian dermatology population.[1]
Symptoms range widely in severity. Identifying which type you have determines the right treatment.
Multiple factors act together — understanding them helps prevent recurrence after treatment.
A structured clinical assessment — not a quick glance and a prescription pad. Here's exactly what to expect.
All procedures by board-certified MD DVL dermatologists. US-FDA approved equipment. No technician-only protocols — ever.
Results are gradual, progressive, and lasting with the right protocol.
No, lichen planus is absolutely not contagious. It cannot spread from person to person through touch, saliva, or any form of contact. LP is an autoimmune condition where your own immune system attacks skin cells — it is not caused by any infection that can be transmitted. You cannot "catch" lichen planus from someone who has it.
Oral lichen planus affects the mucous membranes inside the mouth — appearing as white lace-like patches (reticular type) or painful erosions and ulcers (erosive type). It affects 40–70% of LP patients and can be the only manifestation. Erosive oral LP causes significant pain while eating and speaking. While malignant transformation risk is low (estimated 0.5–2% over 5 years), regular monitoring every 6 months is recommended by dermatology guidelines. DermaVue dermatologists manage oral LP with topical tacrolimus, steroid mouth rinses, and systemic therapy when needed.
DermaVue consultation fee is ₹300 at most branches. Topical prescription costs vary by medication and area involved. NB-UVB phototherapy sessions range ₹800–1,500 per session (typically 20–30 sessions needed for generalised LP). Chemical peels for residual pigmentation start at ₹1,500–3,500 per session. Full treatment costs are discussed transparently at your first consultation — no hidden charges.
Cutaneous lichen planus is usually self-limiting — most cases resolve within 1–2 years with treatment, though post-inflammatory pigmentation may persist longer. However, oral lichen planus tends to be chronic and may require long-term maintenance therapy. Nail LP and lichen planopilaris (scalp) need early aggressive treatment to prevent permanent nail damage or scarring hair loss. Recurrences can occur, so having a dermatologist-supervised flare plan is important.
Indian skin (Fitzpatrick types IV–VI) has higher melanocyte density and reactivity. When LP causes inflammation at the dermoepidermal junction, melanin drops into the dermis — a process called pigmentary incontinence. This creates persistent grey-brown patches that can last months to years after active LP resolves. Lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP), a variant especially common in South Asians, causes diffuse hyperpigmentation even without obvious preceding papules. DermaVue treats this with chemical peels, topical depigmenting agents, and glutathione therapy tailored to Indian skin.
Yes. Multiple studies — including Indian data — show a statistically significant association between hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and lichen planus. HCV is found in 5–35% of LP patients depending on the population studied. IADVL guidelines recommend HCV screening for all newly diagnosed LP patients. If positive, treating the underlying hepatitis C often improves LP as well. DermaVue routinely includes HCV screening in the LP diagnostic workup.
Board-certified MD DVL dermatologists across 7 clinics in Kerala & Tamil Nadu. WhatsApp for instant appointment. Consultation ₹300.
₹300 consultation · No hidden charges · 7 locations