National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Linear lichen planus


Other Names:
Blaschkoid LP; Blaschkoid lichen planus; Linear LP; Blaschkoid LP; Blaschkoid lichen planus; Linear LP; LLP See More
Categories:
This disease is grouped under:
Linear lichen planus (LLP) is a rare form of lichen planus, which is a condition that affects the skin and/or mouth. In LLP, specifically, affected people develop itchy, purple, flat-topped papules (bumps) in a linear distribution along the lines of Blaschko. Although these papules can be found anywhere on the body, they most commonly affect the limbs (arms and legs).[1][2] The exact underlying cause of LLP is unknown; however, it has been associated with metastatic cancer, HIV infection and hepatitis C infection.[3] Treatment is not always necessary as some cases of LLP resolve on their own. Mild cases can often be managed with topical steroids, while more intensive therapies may be required for severe cases.[2][1]
Last updated: 7/15/2015

Support and advocacy groups can help you connect with other patients and families, and they can provide valuable services. Many develop patient-centered information and are the driving force behind research for better treatments and possible cures. They can direct you to research, resources, and services. Many organizations also have experts who serve as medical advisors or provide lists of doctors/clinics. Visit the group’s website or contact them to learn about the services they offer. Inclusion on this list is not an endorsement by GARD.

Organizations Providing General Support

These resources provide more information about this condition or associated symptoms. The in-depth resources contain medical and scientific language that may be hard to understand. You may want to review these resources with a medical professional.

Where to Start

  • DermNet NZ is an online resource about skin diseases developed by the New Zealand Dermatological Society Incorporated. DermNet NZ provides information about this condition.

In-Depth Information

  • Medscape Reference provides information on this topic. You may need to register to view the medical textbook, but registration is free.
  • The Monarch Initiative brings together data about this condition from humans and other species to help physicians and biomedical researchers. Monarch’s tools are designed to make it easier to compare the signs and symptoms (phenotypes) of different diseases and discover common features. This initiative is a collaboration between several academic institutions across the world and is funded by the National Institutes of Health. Visit the website to explore the biology of this condition.
  • Orphanet is a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Access to this database is free of charge.
  • PubMed is a searchable database of medical literature and lists journal articles that discuss Linear lichen planus. Click on the link to view a sample search on this topic.

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  1. Lichen planus. DermNet NZ. March 2015; http://dermnetnz.org/scaly/lichen-planus.html.
  2. Tsu-Yi Chuang, MD, MPH. Lichen Planus. Medscape Reference. May 2015; http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1123213-overview.
  3. Linear lichen planus. Orphanet. May 2011; http://www.orpha.net/consor/cgi-bin/OC_Exp.php?lng=en&Expert=254379.