Some people with lichen planus can also have hepatitis C and your dermatologist may want to check you for this. Lichen planus affects men and women equally, and occurs most often in middle-aged adults. They can be anywhere on the body, but seem to favor the inside of the wrists and ankles. The disease can also occur on the lower back, neck, legs, genitals, and in rare cases, the scalp and nails. Thick patches may occur, especially on the shins.
Blisters are rare.
While the typical appearance of lichen planus makes the disease somewhat easy to identify, a skin biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. Sometimes, lichen planus of the skin causes few problems and needs no treatment. However, in many cases there is severe itching. Most cases of lichen planus go away within two years. As it heals, lichen planus often leaves a dark brown discoloration on the skin.