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Long-term follow-up of lichen planus
C Irvine1, F Irvine, R H Champion
1Kent and Canterbury Hospital, England.
Acta Dermato-Venereologica
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Lichen planus typically clears within a year for most patients, but this study found a high recurrence rate of 49%. Persistent brown staining is also a common long-term effect of this skin condition.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Clinical Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Limited recent large-scale surveys on lichen planus natural history exist.
- Previous studies on lichen planus patient series are over 30 years old.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the natural history of lichen planus.
- To analyze disease progression and long-term outcomes in a cohort of patients.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study of 214 patients diagnosed with lichen planus.
- Patients were followed for 8 to 12 years post-initial dermatology department presentation.
Main Results:
- The mean age of onset for lichen planus was significantly lower in males (40.3 years) than females (46.4 years).
- The primary rash resolved within one year in 68% of patients.
- A high recurrence rate of 49% was observed, exceeding previous reports.
- Persistent hyperpigmentation (brown staining) was a common sequela years after rash clearance.
Conclusions:
- Lichen planus exhibits a variable natural history with a notable recurrence rate.
- Delayed sequelae, such as persistent skin staining, are common long-term outcomes.
- Further research into the chronic management and long-term effects of lichen planus is warranted.