In simple words: Lichen simplex chronicus is a skin problem where constant scratching or rubbing makes the skin thick and leathery. It's not a disease itself, but a reaction to an itch that keeps getting worse because of scratching. The thickened skin patches are usually darker than the surrounding skin and are often found in places that are easy to reach and scratch.

Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by thickened, leathery plaques (lichenification) resulting from chronic scratching or rubbing of the skin.The condition is not a primary skin disease but rather a secondary response to an underlying itch. This itch-scratch cycle leads to further irritation and thickening of the skin.The plaques are often hyperpigmented (darkened) and may be located on areas easily accessible for scratching, such as the legs, arms, neck, or genitals.Diagnosis is typically made through clinical examination and may involve a biopsy to rule out other conditions.

Example 1: A 45-year-old woman presents with a thickened, hyperpigmented patch on her inner wrist that she has been scratching for several months.It's itchy and has gotten progressively worse.A diagnosis of lichen simplex chronicus is made. Treatment includes topical corticosteroid cream and habit reversal training., A 60-year-old male with a history of anxiety reports intense itching on his ankles for years leading to thickened, leathery plaques.Lichen simplex chronicus is diagnosed. Treatment includes counseling for anxiety management, topical corticosteroids, and antihistamines., A 28-year-old presents with a single, intensely itchy, lichenified plaque on her neck that has been resistant to self-treatment. After ruling out other conditions through examination and a skin biopsy, she is diagnosed with lichen simplex chronicus. Treatment includes a combination of topical corticosteroids, a short course of oral corticosteroids, and regular follow-up to monitor progress and manage any recurrence.

Detailed history of pruritus onset, duration, and aggravating/relieving factors;description of the lesions including location, size, appearance (lichenification, hyperpigmentation, scaling); results of any diagnostic tests (e.g., biopsy, patch testing); treatment plan and patient response to treatment.

** Lichen simplex chronicus is a chronic condition prone to recurrence if the itch-scratch cycle is not effectively addressed.Patient education on appropriate skin care, stress management, and techniques for managing the itch are crucial components of treatment.Treatment may involve various modalities, including topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, antihistamines, and possibly phototherapy.