Lichen striatus is an uncommon self-limiting skin rash that occurs mainly in children. It usually involves the arms and legs, but can affect any part of the body. Females are affected two to three times more than males. It presents as pink raised spots that join together to form one or more dull red slightly scaly linear bands. This condition most commonly occurs in children between five and ten years of age. More than 50% of all cases occur in children aged 5-15 years. Lichen striatus often appears as a sudden eruption of small papules on an extremity. The papules are usually asymptomatic, reaching maximum involvement within several days to weeks. Lichen striatus is self-limited, but it may resolve with postinflammatory hyper or hypopigmentation.



The main symptoms to look for are a rash and small bumps on the body. The band is usually 2mm to 2cm in width and may be a few centimetres in length or may extend the entire length of the limb. The most affected areas are the arms and legs since this is where is most commonly shows up on children who contract the disorder. Although it can appear on any part of the body. Lesions extending to the upper nail fold affect the nail. Sometimes the nail alone may be involved for months before the appearance of a linear band extending up the extremity. Apply topical steroids may help this condition. Cortisone creams is the only treatment of trouble area. These creams can help soothe the problem and try to speed the recovery process.

Lichen Striatus Treatment Tips

1. Corticosteroids may be injected directly into a lesion.

2. Cortisone creams is the only treatment of trouble area.

3. Lidocaine mouth washes may numb the area temporarily.

4. Ultraviolet light therapy may be beneficial in some cases.

5. Topical corticosteroids or oral corticosteroidsmay be reduce inflammation.

6. Topical retinoic acid creams may reduce itching and inflammation and may aid healing.

7. Occlusive dressings may be placed over topical medications to protect the skin from scratching.