HomeAnswersDermatologyskin disorderI am worried as my arms are itchy with black patches all over them and now they are spreading on other body parts too. Please help.

How can a lichen simplex planus or asteatotic dermatitis patient be treated?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Suvash Sahu

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At November 25, 2023
Reviewed AtDecember 14, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My arms are itchy with black patches all over it now spreading on other body parts. Due to itchiness scabs are there. I have used moisturizers and herbal products with no effect. The condition has gotten worse with time. This problem started about 10 years ago. I have never taken any medications for it.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Suvash Sahu

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

I have seen your pictures (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). You are having Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC) or asteatotic dermatitis. It arises because of repetitive scratching or rubbing there is a thickening of the skin with variable flakes. Lichen simplex chronicus usually describes stable itchy thickened one or more areas; however, thickening of the skin occurs in any location that the patient can reach, like the nape of the neck, extensor forearms and elbows, upper medial thighs, knees, lower legs, and ankles. In your case it involves extensor and flexor aspects of the forearm, causes age-related dryness, venous insufficiencies like tortuous veins or pooling of blood due to prolonged standing or weakness of blood vessel wall due to aging, and eczema in old age due to baths with hot water (Asteatotic eczema) are common factors. Apply exfoliating cream or moisturizing cream then wait for 15 minutes then apply topical steroids with salicylic acid twice daily for two weeks after consulting your general practitioner or nearby dermatologist.

I hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Suvash Sahu
Dr. Suvash Sahu

Dermatology

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