Symptoms
Lichen striatus is a benign skin disorder that manifests as small, white to red, lichenoid, sometimes scaly, inflammatory papules that appear unilaterally, primarily along the extremities, in linear bands following Blaschko lines. The nails may also be involved and mild pruritus is sometimes observed. The rash is most common in children and more common in the warm season and may leave a transient hypopigmentation after healing.
Causes
The exact cause is not known. A genetic mosaic and somatic mutations of skin cells are considered as possible causes. A genetic predisposition and environmental factors may play a role.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made in pediatric or dermatologic care based on the clinical picture. Other skin disorders causing similar symptoms must be excluded.
Treatment
Drug treatment is not essential, as the condition resolves on its own within weeks, months, or even years. Topical glucocorticoids, cardiosperm ointments, skin care products, and other externals can be tried as needed. Tacrolimus and calcipotriol are also mentioned in the literature, but they are potentially less well tolerated.