Systematic Review of Lichen Planus Pigmentosus in Children.

BACKGROUND

Pediatric lichen planus (LP) is a relatively uncommon condition, with increased presentation in children with darkly pigmented skin.

OBJECTIVE

To understand the small subset of children with lichen planus (LP) manifesting as lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP), a form with thin plaques and extensive hyperpigmentation, generally in the absence of signs of inflammation

Methods

This article is a systematic review of the English language literature for cases of lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP) in children.

RESULTS

Twenty-one cases were identified including 2 that were linear, 3 inverse types, 1 palmoplantar. In larger series, 2–2.8% of children with lichen planus are affected by this sub-variant. One patient had reported associated oral lesions. Oral and topical corticosteroids, topical tacrolimus, and ultraviolet light have been described as successful therapies.

CONCLUSIONS

LPP is an uncommon but important variant of lichen planus in children. In the presence of dark hyperpigmentation of the skin, a biopsy can help identify LPP. Clinicians should be aware that LPP can follow four patterns: common, inverse, palmoplantar, and linear.J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(7):850-853. doi:10.36849/JDD.6760.