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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Have Hyperpigmented Patches On Face. What Is The Difference In Presentation Of Lichen Planus Actinicus And Pigmentosus?

I have hyperpigmented patches on my face that were originally thought to be melasma . Now my doctor is suggesting lichen planus actinicus. I have been looking on the net and wondered if it could be lichen planus pigmentosus. Please advise the dfference in presentation of these two conditions. Also what is the most effective treatment of lichen planus actinicus or pigmentosus
Thu, 14 Mar 2013
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Dermatologist 's  Response
Hi Kirstine,
Thanks for writing to us.
Hyper pigmented patches on face could be melasma or lichen planus pigmentosus or pigmented variant of actinic LP. The diagnosis can only be confirmed by skin biopsy. Clinically more or less they might appear to be same. As far as treatment is concerned it is basically the same for all to some extent as involves sun avoidance, use of sunscreens and pigmentation reducer creams. Actinic LP and LPP may require a course of oral steroids or vitamin a derivatives or hydroxychloroquine
Hope that helps. Take care
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Dermatologist Dr. Gaurav Patel's  Response
hello
welcome to healthcare magic forum
thank you for your query
lichen planus actinicus and pigmentosus is part of lichen planus .
in actinicus you can see central dark zone surrounding by light halo while in pigmentosus color distribute in same pattern
treatment point of view it do not make any difference .
sun screen is must for skin care
mild steroid and skin lighting agent also work
i hope i answered your question
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Have Hyperpigmented Patches On Face. What Is The Difference In Presentation Of Lichen Planus Actinicus And Pigmentosus?

Hi Kirstine, Thanks for writing to us. Hyper pigmented patches on face could be melasma or lichen planus pigmentosus or pigmented variant of actinic LP. The diagnosis can only be confirmed by skin biopsy. Clinically more or less they might appear to be same. As far as treatment is concerned it is basically the same for all to some extent as involves sun avoidance, use of sunscreens and pigmentation reducer creams. Actinic LP and LPP may require a course of oral steroids or vitamin a derivatives or hydroxychloroquine Hope that helps. Take care