Lichen ruber / Lichen planus vulgaris and atopic skin changes "Support" Homeopathy according to Dr. Banerji

Dr. Banerji Protocols

Lichen ruber / Lichen planus vulgaris and atopic skin changes

Lichen ruber planus, also known as lichen planus, lichen planus vulgaris, or nodular lichen, is a chronic inflammatory, immune-mediated disease of the skin and mucous membranes. It can also affect the nails, hair follicles, and scalp.

Atopic skin changes, particularly in the context of atopic dermatitis (neurodermatitis), are distinct from this. Both diseases can be accompanied by severe itching and chronic inflammatory skin changes, but they have different disease mechanisms and typical manifestations.

Lichen ruber / Lichen planus vulgaris – Nodular lichen

Typical of lichen ruber are small, flat, sharply defined papules (nodules).

Characteristic features may include:

• reddish to violet papules

• flat, sometimes shiny surface

• severe itching

• fine whitish lines on the papules, known as Wickham's striae

• grouped or confluent skin lesions

• brownish pigmentation after healing

Commonly affected areas include:

• wrists

• forearms

• ankles

• lower legs

• torso

• oral mucosa

• genital area

Lichen planus of the oral mucosa

In oral lichen planus, whitish, reticular patterns may appear on the oral mucosa.

Other possible symptoms include:

• whitish patches

• redness

• burning sensation

• sensitive mucous membrane

• painful erosions

• superficial ulcers

Chronic, particularly erosive forms should be regularly checked by a specialist or dentist, as oral lichen planus is considered one of the potentially malignant diseases of the oral mucosa. The absolute risk of malignancy is low but cannot be entirely ruled out.

Scalp and hair involvement

If the disease affects the hair follicles, lichen planopilaris can develop.

This can lead to:

• inflamed hair follicles

• redness and scaling of the scalp

• burning or itching

• increasing hair loss

• scarring alopecia

Since destroyed hair follicles do not regrow, suspected lichen planopilaris should be clarified by a dermatologist early.

Nail changes

Lichen planus can also affect the nails, causing, for example:

• longitudinal ridges

• brittleness

• thinning of the nail plate

• nail splitting

• deformities

• permanent nail damage in severe cases

Atopic skin changes

Atopic skin changes occur particularly in people with an atopic predisposition. These primarily include neurodermatitis, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, and allergic asthma.

In atopic dermatitis, the natural skin barrier is disrupted. The skin loses moisture more easily and reacts more sensitively to external stimuli.

Typical skin changes include:

• very dry skin

• severe itching

• redness

• scaling

• eczema

• scratched skin areas

• weeping lesions during acute flare-ups

• thickening and coarsening of the skin due to chronic scratching

Difference between lichen planus and atopic dermatitis

Although both diseases can cause severe itching, they are distinct clinical pictures.

In lichen planus, characteristic reddish-violet papules or mucosal changes are prominent.

In atopic dermatitis, on the other hand, dry, sensitive skin, eczema, and a disrupted skin barrier dominate.

A definitive distinction, especially in atypical skin changes, may require a dermatological examination and, if necessary, a skin biopsy.

Scratching and Köbner phenomenon

In lichen planus, new skin lesions can appear on mechanically irritated or injured skin areas. This is known as the Köbner phenomenon.

Even with atopic skin changes, scratching can significantly intensify the inflammation. A cycle of itching – scratching – skin damage – increased itching often develops.

Diagnosis

Depending on the appearance, clarification may include:

• dermatological examination

• dermoscopy

• examination of the oral and genital mucosa

• assessment of the scalp and nails

• allergological diagnostics if relevant

• skin or mucous membrane biopsy for unclear or suspicious changes

Treatment

Treatment depends on the exact diagnosis, location, and severity.

For lichen planus, depending on the situation, topical corticosteroids, immunomodulatory treatments, light therapy, or, in severe cases, systemic therapies may be used.

For atopic dermatitis, consistent basic care and stabilization of the skin barrier, avoidance of individual triggers, and anti-inflammatory topical or, in more severe cases, systemic therapies are available.

Homeopathy according to Dr. Banerji

In homeopathy according to Dr. Banerji, specific homeopathic remedies and potencies are used according to the Banerji protocols for various chronic skin diseases, itching, and inflammatory skin and mucous membrane changes.

A reliable treatment or cure for lichen planus or atopic dermatitis through homeopathic remedies has not been scientifically proven.

Necessary dermatological examinations and treatments should not be replaced or delayed. This applies particularly to erosive mucosal changes and potential lichen planopilaris with impending permanent hair loss.

Important note

For persistent, open, bleeding, hardened, or changing mucosal areas, especially in the mouth or genital area, a specialist examination is required.

Severe hair loss with inflammatory changes of the scalp should also be clarified by a dermatologist early.

The information on this page is for general information purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Ingredients: Nitricum acidum, Hepar sulfur, Arsenicum album, Antim crudum, Kalium sulphur, Coffea cruda, Mezereum, Cistus canad.