What is the cause of lichen amyloidosis?

Lichen amyloidosis is the most common form of primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis. The cause is unknown, but the condition is thought to be induced by scratching. Owing to its benign nature, few studies have examined the condition’s prevalence, but it typically presents in the 5th or 6th decade of life.

What is the best treatment for lichen amyloidosis?

Therapeutic management of lichen amyloidosis comprises the use of topical treatments, such as glucocorticosteroids, calcipotriene, hydrocolloid dressings, psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) photochemotherapy, intralesional glucocorticosteroids, systemic treatments, such as acitretin, cyclophosphamide, and cyclosporine.

Is lichen amyloidosis rare?

Lichen amyloidosis is a rare chronic form of cutaneous amyloidosis (see this term), a skin disease characterized by the accumulation of amyloid deposits in the dermis, clinically characterized by the development of pruritic, often pigmented, hyperkeratotic papules on trunk and extremities, especially on the shins, and …

What diseases cause amyloidosis?

Diseases that are associated with amyloidosis include multiple myeloma, Hodgkin’s disease, some types of tumors and Mediterranean fever that runs in families. It may also be associated with aging. Amyloid is often found in the pancreas of people who develop diabetes as adults. The disease starts in the bone marrow.

Can lichen amyloidosis be cured?

There is no cure for amyloidosis. Your doctor will prescribe treatments to slow the development of the amyloid protein and manage your symptoms. If amyloidosis is related to another condition, then treatment will include targeting that underlying condition.

What does lichen amyloidosis look like?

Lichen amyloidosis appears as clusters of small skin coloured, reddish or brown scaly spots, which can merge together to form raised thickened areas especially on the shins and lower limbs. The arms and back can also be affected.

How do you get rid of lichen amyloidosis?

The treatment of lichen and macular amyloidosis is focused on relieving itch. Sedating antihistamines can be moderately effective. Topical and intralesional steroids may provide some relief if used with other treatments. Other treatments include topical dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and phototherapy (UVB or PUVA).

Does lichen amyloidosis spread?

Intensely pruritic hyperkeratotic papules that may coalesce to form gray to brown plaques with distribution on the anterior tibiae being a common site of involvement is a common presentation. However, spreading to extensor surfaces of the upper extremities and trunk may occur.

When should you suspect amyloidosis?

Unable to lie flat in bed due to shortness of breath. Numbness, tingling or pain in your hands or feet, especially pain in your wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome) Diarrhea, possibly with blood, or constipation. Unintentional weight loss of more than 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms)

What is the life expectancy of someone with amyloidosis?

Amyloidosis has a poor prognosis, and the median survival without treatment is only 13 months. Cardiac involvement has the worst prognosis and results in death in about 6 months after onset of congestive heart failure. Only 5% of the patients with primary amyloidosis survive beyond 10 years.