Thick, scaly, slightly elevated lesions with pronounced skin lines occur when the skin is repeatedly rubbed. This image displays thickening of the skin typical of lichen simplex chronicus. Chronic rubbing leads to thick, scaly skin lesions, as displayed here. This image displays very thick skin from being chronically rubbed. This image displays thick areas of skin on the forearms typical of lichen simplex chronicus. As displayed in this image, chronic rubbing and scratching can lead to darkening of the skin as well as skin thickening. This image displays an early, mild lesion of lichen simplex chronicus. In lichen simplex chronicus, the skin lines or markings are more pronounced than in normal skin. As displayed in this image, the top of the hand is a typical location for lichen simplex chronicus. This image displays scaly skin due to lichen simplex chronicus. This image displays a thickened, cobblestone-like area of lichen simplex, due to repeated rubbing of the area. Chronic rubbing or scratching of the same area leads to lichen simplex chronicus, with thickened, rough, and sometimes red, broken skin areas.
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Lichen Simplex Chronicus:
Information for adults

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Picture of Lichen Simplex Chronicus: Thick, scaly, slightly elevated lesions with pronounced skin lines occur when the skin is repeatedly rubbed. Divider line
Thick, scaly, slightly elevated lesions with pronounced skin lines occur when the skin is repeatedly rubbed.
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Signs and Symptoms
Although it can occur anywhere on the body, lichen simplex chronicus is most commonly seen in the following areas:
  • Inner wrists, forearms, and elbows
  • Sides and back of neck
  • Upper thighs, knees, shins, ankles, and tops of feet
  • Vulva, scrotum, anus (anogenital areas)
  • Scalp
Each patch of lichen simplex chronicus appears as leathery, thickened skin in which the normal skin lines are exaggerated. The thickened skin is darker than surrounding skin (hyperpigmented). This darkening is even more apparent in dark-skinned people.

Individuals with lichen simplex chronicus report periodic itching that is most intense at night or any time they are still. 
Last Modified: 29 Jan 2008

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