Lichen Striatus: An Updated Review.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Lichen striatus is a benign dermatosis primarily affecting children.
• Its clinical presentation can mimic other skin conditions, leading to potential misdiagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To educate pediatricians on lichen striatus clinical manifestations.
• To prevent misdiagnosis, unnecessary tests, referrals, and improper management of this condition.

Main Methods:

• A literature search was performed in PubMed Clinical Queries using "Lichen striatus".
• Included observational studies, clinical trials, and reviews from the past ten years in English.

Main Results:

• Lichen striatus is a self-limited, T-cell mediated dermatosis with a sudden onset, typically presenting as a linear papular eruption in children.
• Lesions follow Blaschko lines, often unilaterally on extremities, and can affect nails. Hypopigmentation may occur in darker skin tones.
• Numerous differential diagnoses exist, with key features detailed in the review.

Conclusions:

• Lichen striatus is a benign, self-limited condition resolving within a year, potentially with transient pigment changes.
• Treatment is often unnecessary; topical corticosteroids or immunomodulators can be used for symptomatic relief or cosmetic reasons.
• Fading creams are effective for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.