Lichen Striatus

• This rash can happen at any age, and it is not contagious.

  • It is believed to be more common from ages 5 to 15 years of age.

• It is thought to be more common in those assigned females compared to males.

• It is considered an inflammatory skin condition.

• The rash is more common on the skin, but can involve the nails.

• The rash typically resolves on its own over 6 to 12 months, but can take longer.

• When the nails are affected, it may take years to resolve.  

Below:  images of lichen striatus of the skin.

Below:  images of lichen striatus of the nails.

• No one knows what causes this rash.

  • There are thoughts that it may be caused by viral infections.

  • There are thoughts that it might be affected by genetics and factors in the environment.

• People with atopic dermatitis/eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis may be more likely to develop this rash.

• The rash usually starts out as pink, red, or flesh colored spots in those with lighter colored skin.

• The rash usually appears as lighter spots on darker skin.

  • Over the next few weeks, the dots start to form bands.

  • There may be one or more bands that form.

  • The bands may extend out over a full leg or arm.

• The legs and the arms are the most common areas to see the rash, but other body parts may be affected as well.

  • The rash is usually limited to one side of the body, but may be on both.

  • You may notice a V or S shape on your child’s back, chest, or abdomen, if those areas are involved.  

• Rarely, nails may be affected and become hard, rigid, and may split.

  • Sometimes they fall off before the rash has fully resolved.

  • When the nails are involved, your child may or may not have the rash on their body.

• The skin may feel scaly over time.

  • Rarely, the skin may have vesicles.

• The rash doesn’t usually bother children, but some kids may complain of itchiness.

  • If your child has a history of atopic dermatitis/eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis, they may be more likely to complain of itch.

• Your child’s primary healthcare provider will ask you and your child (if age appropriate) some different questions.

• Your child’s primary healthcare provider will examine your child.

• Usually, the diagnosis can be made by the answers to the questions and the exam.

• There may be the need to see a specialist for further help, such as a dermatologist.

• There is no way to prevent this since the cause is unknown.

• Continue to keep your child’s skin hydrated with lotions, creams, oils, or thick emollients like petrolatum.

• Continue to encourage your child to drink lots of water (if 6 months and older) and eat healthy meals.

• Keep your child’s skin well hydrated with lotions, creams, oils, or thick emollients like petrolatum (examples: Aquaphor and Vaseline).

• Encourage your child to drink lots of water and eat healthy.

• There is no specific treatment since the rash will resolve on its own.

• If the rash is itchy:

  • You can use cool compresses.

  • You can give your child an oatmeal bath.

  • Your child’s healthcare provider may prescribe a topical medication to help.

• You think your child has lichen striatus.

• You have concerns about your child’s skin.

• Your child’s symptoms are not improving.

• Your child’s symptoms are getting worse.

• You think your child needs to be seen.