Lichen planus is best described as which of the following?

Lichen planus is best described as which of the following?

• A. It is a viral infection of the mucosa
• B. It is non-infectious, itchy rash
• C. It is a bacterial infection
• D. It is a dental caries

Answer: (B)

Lichen planus is a non-infectious, immune-mediated inflammatory condition that can affect both skin and mucous membranes. It isn’t caused by a virus or bacteria, and it’s not related to dental caries. The classic signs include pruritus (itchiness) and lesions that may appear as purple, polygonal papules on the skin or as white, lacy patterns on mucosal surfaces (Wickham’s striae) in the mouth. Because it reflects an inflammatory, non-infectious process rather than an infection or decay, describing it as a non-infectious, itchy rash best fits its nature.

Lichen planus is a non-infectious, immune-mediated inflammatory condition that can affect both skin and mucous membranes. It isn’t caused by a virus or bacteria, and it’s not related to dental caries. The classic signs include pruritus (itchiness) and lesions that may appear as purple, polygonal papules on the skin or as white, lacy patterns on mucosal surfaces (Wickham’s striae) in the mouth. Because it reflects an inflammatory, non-infectious process rather than an infection or decay, describing it as a non-infectious, itchy rash best fits its nature.