Lichen striatus is a rather rarely seen benign, self-limiting linear dermatosis which chiefly afflicts children. The condition is diagnosed on the basis of its appearance and characteristic development along the lines of Blaschko.
The precise cause for lichen striatus is yet unknown. However, several etiological and predisposing factors have been suggested.
- The commonest theory for the condition is a combination of genetic predilection and environmental stimuli.
- Those having a family history of allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis and asthma were seen to be more prone to developing the disorder.
- An autoimmune response could also well be the cause for lichen striatus.
- An environmental etiology – trauma, infection and post immunization has also been postulated.
- Some hypothesize that lichen striatus is triggered by an immunologic reaction to an infection, which sets off methylation or de-methylation of an especially silenced genomic element in vulnerable patients.
- Lichen striatus is principally a disorder seen in young children. More than 50 % of all lichen striatus cases occur in children of the 5 – 15 year age group.
Symptoms Of Lichen Striatus
Lichen striatus is characterized by:
- Lichen striatus affects the skin and nails.
- It is seen as an unbroken or interrupted, linear band comprising of tiny tan, pink or flesh colored papules.The papules could be smooth, flat topped or scaly. The band of lichen striatus ranges from a few millimeters to 1 – 2 cm wide and extends from a few centimeters to the full length of the extremity. By and large, the papules are unilateral and single on an extremity along the lines of Blaschko.
- Itching is an accompanying feature of the disorder.
Home Remedies For Lichen Striatus
Given that, lichen striatus is self-limiting and the lesions tend to retreat in 12 months, no major treatment is usually required, unless the symptoms are uncontrolled and unmanageable.
- Vitamin A, vitamin E and vitamin C supplementation are very necessary; they help speed up the process of healing. Confer with your health care provider / dermatologist and see what’s best for you. Embark on vitamin supplementation and gradually taper off.
- Also, ensure that you have plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables – apples, oranges, limes, lemons, mangoes, guavas, watermelons, carrots, bell peppers and tomatoes. These are loaded with all the ‘skin’ vitamins and expedite healing.
- Keep your skin well lubricated and moisturized – you could use avocado oil, olive oil and jojoba oil. These lubricate the skin and prevent it from drying out. Avoid artificial moisturizers; they may aggravate your condition.
- Make sure you are well hydrated. Drink plenty of water daily – at least 12 glasses. Additionally, have loads of fresh fruit juices, vegetable juices, barley water, coconut water, herbal teas and soups.
- Flax seeds help deal with a host of skin ailments. The essential fats present in flax seeds nourish your skin and promote rejuvenation. Have 3 to 5 spoons of roasted flax seeds every day.
- Aloe vera is another excellent home remedy to manage the itching associated with lichen striatus. It soothes the skin, allays itching and encourages healing. Blend 2 to 3 spoons of Aloe Vera gel, 1 drop of lavender essential oil and 10 drops of jojoba oil. This blend has found to be exceedingly effective in managing lichen striatus.
In extreme cases, which do not respond to home remedies, you could discuss with your dermatologist and start topical steroidal application to manage the symptoms better.