Lichen Planus Treatment

Lichen Planus Treatment in Terre Haute

Itchy bumps that won't go away? A strange rash inside your mouth? It might be more than just irritation. Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can affect your skin, scalp, nails, and even the inside of your mouth. It's uncomfortable, and often stubborn — but with the right diagnosis and treatment, it can be managed.

What Is Lichen Planus?

Lichen planus is an autoimmune-related condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks your skin or mucous membranes. It causes small, shiny, flat-topped bumps that are often purple or reddish-purple on the skin, and white, lacy patches or painful sores inside the mouth.

It's not contagious — but it can feel isolating, especially when flares are painful or visible.

Symptoms of Lichen Planus

Symptoms depend on where they appear:

On the skin:

• Small, purplish, flat bumps (often itchy)
• Bumps clustering into patches
• Wrists, ankles, lower back, or shins are common spots

In the mouth (oral lichen planus):

• White, lacy patches inside the cheeks
• Red, swollen gums
• Painful mouth sores that can affect eating or speaking

Other possible locations:

• Scalp (causing hair thinning or scarring)
• Nails (causing ridging, thinning, or even nail loss)
• Genitals (painful, itchy rash)

Causes of Lichen Planus

The exact cause isn't fully understood, but research points toward an overactive immune system response.

Possible triggers include:

• Certain medications (blood pressure meds, NSAIDs, antimalarials)
• Viral infections (especially hepatitis C)
• Dental fillings (rarely)
• Stress (can trigger or worsen flares)
• Unknown internal triggers (idiopathic)

At Biltmore Dermatology, we take a full patient history to help rule out underlying triggers and build a tailored treatment plan.

How We Treat Lichen Planus at Biltmore Dermatology

Lichen planus requires customized care because symptoms can vary widely between patients — and between different parts of the body.

Treatment options may include:

• Topical corticosteroids to calm skin or mouth inflammation
• Oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressants for severe or widespread cases
• Antihistamines to control itching
• Immune-modulating therapies (for stubborn or erosive forms)
• Dental collaboration for managing oral lichen planus
• Careful monitoring to catch complications early (oral lichen planus carries a small risk of developing into oral cancer over time)

Our goal isn't just to control flares — it's to help you live with confidence and comfort.

Living with Lichen Planus

Lichen planus isn't a one-time rash — it's a chronic condition that often comes and goes in waves. Managing it means learning to recognize triggers, treating flares early, and building a care plan that fits your life — not just your symptoms.

At Biltmore Dermatology, we're not just here for the diagnosis. We're here to walk with you through every stage of your skin journey.

Why Choose Biltmore Dermatology?

• 24+ years of dermatology experience
• Board-certified dermatology provider Ryan T. Patterson, NP-C, DCNP
• Experience managing both common and rare presentations of lichen planus
• Compassionate, human-first care that sees beyond the surface
• Local, trusted care for Terre Haute, Vincennes, and surrounding Indiana communities

Stop Guessing. Start Healing.

If you're living with a chronic rash, painful mouth sores, or mysterious bumps that aren't improving — you don't have to keep wondering.

No referral is needed. Walk in today. Stay for the care and expertise.

Come for answers. Come for relief. Come for the care.

Contact Us