Definition:
Lichen nitidus is a very uncommon, noncancerous skin condition. It is made up of tiny, skin-colored bumps (papules) that often appear in clusters on the surface of the skin, especially on the arms and legs. The cause of lichen nitidus is not known.
Diagnosis:
Lichen nitidus is typically discovered when the papules suddenly emerge on the skin. The doctor can determine whether the patient has lichen nitidus by its characteristic appearance or by taking a small sample of tissue (biopsy) and examining the tissue under a microscope.
Treatment:
THis condition gets better on its own, but therapy may be seeked for cosmetic reasons, such as steroids, antihistamines, retinoids, and phototherapy.
Symptoms and Signs:
Lichen nitidus appears as numerous skin-colored, shiny papules on the skin. The pinpoint- to pinhead-sized bumps typically appear in clusters and may resemble warts. Papules most often occur on the following skin surfaces: body trunk, legs and forearms, and genitalia.
Causes:
The cause of lichen nitidus is not known, however, it may be occasionally seen with the following conditions: lichen planus, amenorrhea, Crohn's disease, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
