Lichen Simplex Chronicus:
A parent's guide to condition and treatment information

Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC), also known as neurodermatitis circumscripta, is an itchy skin condition causing thickened skin at the areas of skin injured by repeated scratching and rubbing. 

Lichen simplex chronicus is not a primary disease but rather the skin's response to chronic physical injury (trauma). The gradual thickening of skin, caused by repetitive scratching and rubbing, is called lichenification.

Lichen simplex chronicus begins as itchy skin. Itching leads to scratching and rubbing, which causes thickening of skin. Thickened skin is itchy, which causes more scratching and, thus, more skin thickening. This scratch-itch cycle then continues if it is not treated.