LICHENOID ERUPTIONS

Abstract

THE LICHENOID eruptions are a challenge diagnostically, to both the clinician and the histopathologist, especially in dermatoses which have a lichenoid phase. This clinical uncertainty is usually the result of similar changes in the gross histopathologic structure. However, on correlating the more minute and detailed microscopic findings with the clinical picture one can differentiate this group of dermatoses. REVIEW OF LITERATURE These eruptions have most frequently been reported as atypical lichen planus. One form has been named lichen planus erythematosus.^* Lortat-Jacob,† in a discussion of a case of this type presented by Gougerot, thought the lichenoid eruption was secondary to arsenic used in the treatment of this patient for syphilis. Quinacrine (Atabrine), prescribed for the suppression of malaria during World War II, produced many cases of lichenoid eruptions.‡ Clinically these lesions were similar to lichen planus in type of lesion, distribution, course of the disease, and sequelae.