Contents
How Is Lichen Planus Diagnosed? Your Guide to Testing
Published: Jul 27, 2024
Wondering how doctors diagnose lichen planus? Learn about the tests that confirm this condition.
Clinical Evaluation
Doctors start with a clinical evaluation, examining the skin and asking about symptoms. They may ask about medications to rule out drug-induced lichen planus. A full-body check helps pinpoint affected areas.
Biopsy and Histopathology
A skin biopsy is often performed to confirm the diagnosis. During this test, a small skin sample is taken and examined under a microscope. This helps identify the unique features of lichen planus.
Additional Testing for Hepatitis C
Given the potential link to hepatitis C, doctors might test for this virus. However, opinions vary on whether this is necessary for all patients. Testing is more common if there's a high risk of hepatitis C.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's diagnosed through clinical evaluation and sometimes a biopsy.
A biopsy confirms the diagnosis by examining skin tissue.
Testing for hepatitis C depends on the risk and doctor's judgment.
It involves taking a small skin sample for lab analysis.
Wrapping Up
Accurate diagnosis is crucial for managing lichen planus effectively.
References
- Le Cleach L, Chosidow O. Clinical practice. Lichen planus. N Engl J Med 2012; 366:723.
- Eisen D. The clinical features, malignant potential, and systemic associations of oral lichen planus: a study of 723 patients. J Am Acad Dermatol 2002; 46:207.
- Mobini N, Toussaint S, Kamino H. Noninfectious erythematous, papular, and squamous diseases. In: Lever's Histopathology of the Skin, 10th ed, Elder DE (Ed), Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2009. p.169.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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