Epidemiology

Lichen planus (LP) usually develops in middle age between 30 and 60 years and shows a slight female preponderance.​[21][22]​​​ In rare circumstances it may arise in childhood.[23][24]​ Prevalence is estimated to be less than 1% worldwide.​[21][25]​​ In India, one study found that LP represents 0.38% of outpatient dermatology diagnoses.[26]

Cutaneous LP is the most common presentation. One retrospective review in the US reported that classic cutaneous LP was the most common sub-type (88%), followed by hypertrophic LP (7%).[22]​ In India, hypertrophic and actinic cutaneous forms are the most common.[26]​​​​​​​

Mucosal involvement is observed in 30% to 70% of patients.[21]​ The estimated prevalence of oral lichen planus in the general population was 0.89% in one meta-analysis.[27]​ Erosive oral and genital ulceration mostly occurs in women.​​ Concomitant oral involvement is common (occurring in up to 70%) in patients with erosive vulvovaginal LP.[28]

Nail changes are seen in about 10% to 15% of patients.[29]​​​​

Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer