SKIN CONDITIONS
Lichenoid keratosis
A patch or plaque caused by inflammation, often at the site of a pre-existing lesion such as a lentigo.
- Appearance can vary; sometimes resembles skin cancer
- Biopsy often necessary to confirm diagnosis
- Harmless and usually resolves gradually without treatment
Lichenoid keratosis, also known as lichen planus-like keratosis, or LPLK, is a single patch or plaque that results from inflammation.
What does lichenoid keratosis look like?
In 90% of cases, lichenoid keratosis is a single spot, usually on the upper trunk or forearms. Commonly, it has appeared and grown over a short period (less than 3 months).
The surface may be smooth or rough and scaly. The diameter may vary from 1 mm to more than 1 centimetre.
Lichenoid keratosis is sometimes itchy or irritated, but there may be no symptoms.
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Close-up view of a lichenoid keratosis
Lichenoid keratosis on a man's chest
Lichenoid keratosis on a man's cheek
Who gets lichenoid keratosis?
Lichenoid keratosis most commonly appears in fair-skinned people over 30 years old. It is twice as common in females.
Often the cause of lichenoid keratosis is not known, but it may appear at the site of dermatitis, sun exposure, friction or damage to the skin.
How is lichenoid keratosis diagnosed?
On dermoscopic examination by a doctor, there may be characteristic grey structures.
Because lichenoid keratosis often has an appearance resembling skin cancer, and grey structures are also seen on dermoscopic examination of some skin cancers, it may be necessary to perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of lichenoid keratosis
Lichenoid keratosis is a benign condition that frequently resolves by itself. Medical treatment may not be required, although a doctor may elect to keep it under observation to ensure that it resolves as expected. Treatments may be provided for cosmetic reasons and include cryotherapy, laser ablation and radiofrequency ablation.
Complications of lichenoid keratosis
Lichenoid keratosis is normally a harmless skin condition which goes away by itself, but in some cases it may be permanent, leading to an area of discolouration or scarring which may be cosmetically unacceptable.
Treatments of lichenoid keratosis
Lichenoid keratosis or skin cancer?
Differentiating between lichenoid keratosis and skin cancer can be challenging. We can help diagnose any new suspicious spots and provide treatment if necessary.
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