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Nail Lichen Planus

Lichen planus is an inflammatory condition that can affect the skin, mouth, scalp, and nails. When it specifically affects the nails, it is known as Nail Lichen Planus (NLP).

Considerations for Pets

• The text describes nail changes such as thinning, splitting, and longitudinal ridging, which can be sharp or cause discomfort if they break off.

Considerations for Children

• The text describes nail changes such as thinning, splitting, and longitudinal ridging, which can be sharp or cause discomfort if they break off.
• One case report mentions a 6-year-old boy with "grubby, rough, and brittle nails" due to the condition.

Common Symptoms and Characteristics

• Nail Lichen Planus (NLP) is characterized by thinning, longitudinal ridging, and distal splitting of the nail plate.
• Affected nails may become brittle or split, and may have ridges running lengthwise.
• Severe cases can lead to nail loss.
• In some instances, a "sand-papered appearance" can be present.
• Dorsal pterygium (fusion of the nail plate to the nail bed) may occur.

Prevalence and Occurrence

• Nail involvement occurs in about 10 percent of reported cases of lichen planus.
• Oral lesions occur in approximately one-third of patients with lichen planus.

Related Conditions

• Yellow nail syndrome and lichenoid reactions can have similar origins.
• Trachyonychia (rough, opaque nails) is seen in 10% of patients affected by nail lichen planus.

Treatment and Research

• Treatment of nail lichen planus is often difficult, and finding an optimal therapy is an ongoing area of research.
• Topical tacrolimus has been reported as a successful treatment in some cases.
• Research from JAMA Dermatology focuses on nail lichen planus in children, including clinical features, response to treatment, and long-term follow-up.

Further Information

• ResearchGate hosts publications related to the treatment of Nail Lichen Planus.
• JAMA Dermatology provides research on Nail Lichen Planus in Children.