Erythema dyschromicum perstans and lichen planus

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pathology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Erythema dyschromicum perstans (EDP) is a skin condition characterized by pigmentary disturbance.
• The classification of EDP has been debated due to its association with lichenoid disorders.

Observation:

• A patient presented with a two-year history of Erythema dyschromicum perstans.
• Subsequently, the patient developed classic lichen planus (LP).

Findings:

• The active lesions of lichen planus in this patient gradually transformed into the characteristic ashy-gray macules of EDP.
• This observed evolution suggests a potential relationship between LP and EDP.

Implications:

• This case supports the classification of certain EDP-like conditions as variants of lichen planus.
• Further research may clarify the nosologic relationship between EDP and LP.