Linear Lichen Planus: Continuum From Skin to Mucosa

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pediatric Dermatology
• Oral Medicine

Background:

• Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting skin and mucous membranes.
• Linear LP, a rare variant, presents with linear eruptions of papules.
• It typically affects middle-aged individuals.

Observation:

• A 14-year-old child presented with an unusual linear LP.
• The eruption extended linearly from the left anterior nares to the upper lip.
• It also involved the oral mucosa up to the upper gum margin.

Findings:

• This case highlights an atypical facial and oral mucosal presentation of linear LP in a pediatric patient.
• The linear distribution and violaceous papules were characteristic, despite the unusual location.
• This presentation expands the known spectrum of linear LP manifestations.

Implications:

• This case broadens the understanding of linear LP's clinical presentation in children.
• It underscores the importance of considering LP in pediatric patients with unusual facial or oral lesions.
• Early diagnosis and management are crucial for pediatric LP cases.