Lichen simplex chronicus
Lichen Simplex Chronicus
Lichen Simplex Chronicus (pronunciation: LY-ken SIM-plex kron-ee-kus) is a skin disorder characterized by chronic itching and scratching. The constant scratching causes thick, leathery skin to form.
Etymology
The term "Lichen Simplex Chronicus" is derived from three words. "Lichen" is a Latin word meaning "tree moss" or "lichen", "Simplex" is a Latin word meaning "simple", and "Chronicus" is a Latin word meaning "chronic". This term was first used in medical literature in the early 20th century.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of Lichen Simplex Chronicus is itching, which leads to scratching. This scratching then leads to the development of thick, leathery skin. Other symptoms may include redness, inflammation, and increased skin markings.
Causes
The exact cause of Lichen Simplex Chronicus is unknown. However, it is often associated with stress, anxiety, and other psychological issues. It can also be triggered by certain skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Treatment
Treatment for Lichen Simplex Chronicus primarily involves reducing itching and preventing scratching. This can be achieved through the use of topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, and other medications. In some cases, psychotherapy may be recommended to help manage stress and anxiety.
Related Terms
- Dermatitis: A general term for inflammation of the skin.
- Eczema: A condition that makes your skin red and itchy.
- Psoriasis: A skin disease that causes red, itchy scaly patches.
- Pruritus: The medical term for itching.
- Corticosteroids: A class of drug used to reduce inflammation.
- Antihistamines: Drugs that treat allergic health conditions by blocking the action of a substance in the body called histamine.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lichen simplex chronicus
- Wikipedia's article - Lichen simplex chronicus
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski