Contents

SynopsisCodesLook ForDiagnostic PearlsDifferential Diagnosis & PitfallsBest TestsManagement PearlsTherapyReferences

View all Images (28)

Lichen spinulosus in Child
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Lichen spinulosus in Child

Contributors: Nnenna Agim MD, FAAD, Vimal Prajapati MD, Ben Barankin MD, Susan Burgin MD
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Synopsis

Lichen spinulosus is a rare and benign cutaneous disorder characterized by sudden onset of localized circumscribed plaques composed of follicular hyperkeratotic papules. It most frequently occurs in children and adolescents; however, young adults can also be affected. There is a slight male preponderance. Individuals of any race can be affected. The etiology and pathogenesis are not known, although atopic, infectious, and genetic factors have been proposed as causes. Patients often have a history of atopy. An actinic variant has been described in which patients suddenly worsen in the summer or present following acute prolonged ultraviolet (UV) exposure, such as attending outdoor sporting activities.

Although usually localized to certain sites of predilection, a more severe generalized variant of lichen spinulosus also exists. This variant occurs in association with nodulocystic acne and pityriasis rubra pilaris as part of type VI (HIV-associated) pityriasis rubra pilaris. Additional rare associations include Crohn disease, Hodgkin disease, seborrheic dermatitis, syphilis, id reactions to fungal infections, and heavy metal ingestions. Note that these associations are not causal relationships and may be the consequence of ascertainment bias.

Lichen spinulosus has a variable course. Most cases tend to resolve spontaneously at puberty; however, persistent cases have also been described. Although no treatment is required, effective therapeutic options include topical keratolytic agents and topical retinoids.

Codes

ICD10CM:
L73.8 – Other specified follicular disorders

SNOMEDCT:
4859009 – Lichen spinulosus

Look For

Subscription Required

Diagnostic Pearls

Subscription Required

Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls

To perform a comparison, select diagnoses from the classic differential

Subscription Required

Best Tests

Subscription Required

Management Pearls

Subscription Required

Therapy

Subscription Required

References

Subscription Required

Last Reviewed:07/18/2021
Last Updated:10/27/2021
Copyright © 2024 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.
Lichen spinulosus in Child
A medical illustration showing key findings of Lichen spinulosus : Abdomen, Extensor distribution, Follicular configuration, Neck, Symmetric extremities distribution, White color, Knees
Clinical image of Lichen spinulosus - imageId=1428722. Click to open in gallery.  caption: 'Multiple discrete, follicularly based, scaly papules on the elbows.'
Multiple discrete, follicularly based, scaly papules on the elbows.
Copyright © 2024 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.